Why Tav Still Deserves Captaincy

There's too much short-hand dismissal of Tav these days. To be fair, he's had the odd rash challenge and he isn't perfect, but calling him a serial loser misses what he brings. Beyond goals or trophies there's a daily contribution: training standards, consistency and a steadying presence that younger players pick up on.

Not everything's measured in medals

People trot out the 'no trophies' line like it's the only verdict that matters. You can debate honours all you like, but quality doesn't always equal silverware — look at similar debates elsewhere in the game. Saying eleven Tav-level players would have won more is a neat thought experiment, but squads need balance, variety and moments of luck as much as they need individual quality.

Options and worries

As for alternatives, I get why some prefer the Liverpool loanee Stephenson at Dundee Utd — fit, athletic and less likely to get caught out by pace. Lissah looks tidy on the ball and technically sound, but you can legitimately worry about defensive work-rate and speed. None of those options necessarily replace the complete set of attributes Tav brings: leadership, reliability and that attitude day in, day out.

Captaincy isn't just a badge

That several managers kept him as captain speaks volumes. He's a leader by example in training and professionalism, and from what I hear he's well respected by younger players at the club. I would keep him as club captain with someone else as team captain — it's a sensible compromise that keeps his influence while allowing a different voice on the pitch.

Replacing him won't be easy, as we've already seen. You can criticise individual moments, and yes he has flaws, but the wider picture is why he's still valued. To be honest, the knee-jerk take that he must go often says more about those throwing the stones than about the player himself.

Written by BearAbroad22: 13 June 2026