James Tavernier has been hugely important for Steven Gerrard’s Rangers this season. Playing at right-back, the 29-year-old has scored 16 goals and added 11 assists in all competitions this campaign.
That’s included two goals and three assists during Rangers’ Europa League campaign, and therefore Tavernier is receiving attention in the European sport media.
At the weekend, Sky Italia celebrated the player’s achievements, and pointed out he’s doing better than two fullbacks shining in Serie A. Achraf Hakimi has three goals and four assists for Inter Milan, whilst Theo Hernandez has one goal and four assists for AC Milan.
Whilst it’s thought those two have been doing well, their figures come nowhere near to what Tavernier has been doing at Rangers, and it’s pointed out Gerrard’s star has the best figures for a right-back in Europe.
Sky Italia say such a season is ‘bound to attract attention’ from the biggest leagues, including Serie A, and they ponder whether Tavernier will opt for a transfer or choose to stay at Ibrox and become a Rangers legend.
Given the player’s contract expires in June 2022, it may be wise for Gerrard to push Rangers to secure a renewal. Then even if he leaves, the transfer fee will be of a higher level.