Ibrox Skipper Keeps Future Options Open Amidst Tense Premiership Run-In
Rangers captain James Tavernier has declared he will "never shut the door" on extending his stay at Ibrox, but insists his immediate focus is solely on delivering a dramatic Scottish Premiership title for the club. The 34-year-old defender, whose current deal expires this summer, spoke exclusively to Sky Sports News about the delicate balance between his future and the present title fight.
"Taking It Day by Day"
When pressed on contract negotiations, Tavernier emphasised a short-term mindset. "I'm taking it day by day," he revealed. "My wife was asking me about the holiday, and I said that's too far ahead for me to think about. I'm really just trying to focus on just this week, my training, and obviously my kids' schedules."
Despite the uncertainty, the long-serving skipper made his affection for the club clear. "It's obviously something that I've been here for a long time, and it's something that I'll never shut the door on. But I've obviously got to wait and see what happens," Tavernier stated, suggesting discussions will be parked until the season's climax.
Title Race Snapshot: Rangers sit one point behind leaders Hearts, with Celtic a further two points back. Five fixtures remain.
Tavernier's Season: The captain has started 23 of 33 league games under head coach Danny Röhl.
Opta's Verdict: The analytics giant's prediction model now makes Rangers title favourites.
Driven by Title Ambition
The veteran's immediate energy is channeled into an enthralling championship battle. Rangers, who were sixth and 13 points off the pace when Röhl replaced the sacked Russell Martin in October, have surged back into contention. "It's in our hands," Tavernier asserted. "Our aim is obviously to win every single game until now to the end of the season."
He acknowledged the reduced role he has sometimes played this campaign, but stressed his unwavering commitment. "It's obviously frustrating, because I want to start every single game... But if I'm asked to be on the sidelines, I'm going to support the boys no matter what," he said, highlighting the collective belief within the squad that has fueled their remarkable turnaround.
Key Takeaways
- James Tavernier's Rangers contract expires this summer, but he remains open to staying.
- The captain is prioritising the club's tense Premiership title chase over personal future talks.
- Rangers have transformed from also-rans to Opta's title favourites under Danny Röhl.
- Tavernier, while frustrated with fewer starts, remains a dedicated leader on and off the pitch.
- The final Old Firm derby of the season on May 10 could be decisive.
The run-in promises high drama, with a pivotal trip to face Hearts on May 4, followed by the final second league winner's medal since his 2015 arrival is the only thing on his mind.
