Barry Ferguson Supports James Tavernier’s Crucial Leadership Role at Rangers
Barry Ferguson has publicly backed James Tavernier and supports the defender’s crucial leadership role at Rangers. Ferguson says his recent time managing the club changed his view of the skipper.
Ferguson’s revised assessment
Ferguson managed Rangers from February until the end of last season. He says working with Tavernier in that spell revealed the player’s commitment to the club.
The former captain managed 15 matches in charge. Tavernier started every one of those games, Ferguson notes.
Tavernier’s season, numbers and contract situation
Tavernier remains one of the club’s most experienced players. He joined Rangers in 2015 and has spent 11 years at Ibrox.
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 308 |
| Goals | 82 |
| Assists | 85 |
His contract expires at the end of the season. The defender looks likely to leave after this campaign.
Playing time under Danny Rohl
Under Danny Rohl, Tavernier has not always been first choice. He has been left out of nine Scottish Premiership starts this season so far.
The captain was dropped for major fixtures against Celtic and Hearts. In the last four matches involving those rivals, he began on the bench.
He showed his quality against St Mirren. That performance will be hard for Rohl to ignore.
Potential influence in the title run-in
Ferguson believes Tavernier and John Souttar could be important between now and season end. He told the Daily Record he is certain both will play key roles on the pitch.
Even when not starting, Tavernier’s voice carries weight in the dressing room. Rangers remain in pursuit of their 56th league title.
Reported 20 March 2026. Photo credit: Imago. Filmogaz.com coverage continues with updates and analysis.
