Alan Hutton has stressed the importance of keeping James Tavernier at Rangers amid speculation linking the captain with a move away from Ibrox.
Earlier in the transfer window, Tavernier appeared set to leave as Trabzonspor expressed interest. With Philippe Clement already having moved on key figures like John Lundstram, Ryan Jack, and Connor Goldson, Tavernier seemed poised to follow. However, with less than two days remaining before the transfer deadline, the right-back is still a Rangers player.
Hutton, a former Rangers full-back, emphasized the significant impact losing Tavernier would have. “When you look at all the experience Rangers have lost, to then lose Tavernier too, they’d be losing a lot,” Hutton told reporters. “When you consider his goals, assists, and everything else he brings to the team, his absence could be a huge blow.”
Despite the transfer rumors, Hutton is confident that Tavernier’s leadership and experience will help him remain focused. “I don’t think the transfer noise will affect him,” Hutton added. “James is the captain and he takes a lot of flak at times, but he’s been able to deal with it. So this won’t put him off his stride. Of course, there are rumors, but you can only focus on what you do day to day.”
Tavernier, who was Rangers’ most creative player last season with 24 goals and 12 assists, remains a crucial asset. Hutton noted, “Looking at last season, it’s the main difference between Celtic and Rangers. The goals Celtic got from midfield and other areas, compared to Rangers, were much higher. Tavernier was the top scorer and contributed plenty of assists from full-back.”
With the new season underway, Hutton believes Rangers need more contributions from other areas. “You expect numbers, ten-plus goals or assists, from your midfield and creative players,” he said. “That’s what Clement will be looking for this season. Players like Lawrence have had a good start, but they need to chip in with more goals for Rangers to compete.”