The skipper has dropped to the bench recently but started and scored in Perth on Sunday
Age might just be a number but James Tavernier would rather look at the stats that show he’s as fit as ever.
That theory was vindicated on Sunday as Tavernier - benched for last week’s clashes with Dundee United and Nice - returned reinvigorated to Clement’s line-up to play a leader’s role in the 1-0 win over St Johnstone. “I need to really push the boys on. Anyone who's asked to put on the shirt on the starting XI has got to perform. So, yeah, it's obviously different.
With problems off the pitch at Ibrox piling up on top of a heap of points spilled on it, Rangers hasn’t exactly been the happiest of work environments of late. At times, Tavernier has worn his own gloominess on his face. Talking of numbers, Tavernier is closing in on completing a 10th campaign at the club. Asked if he hoped to be rewarded with a testimonial for his lengthy service, he said: "I've got another season after this , so still more time. If I complete this season then obviously, that's on the cards and it's very unusual these days for testimonials and players being at clubs for so long. We will just have to wait and see.
For too long, Rangers have relied on their free-scoring right-back to bail them out of trouble. He may not have got the credit on Sunday but it was the pressure he applied at the back post which forced former Ibrox team-mate Jason Holt to bundle home into his own net for the only goal in Perth.
Rangers FC Philippe Clement Ianis Hagi St Johnstone FC
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