SHOCKING DEPARTURE;Rangers have no option but to formalise James Tavernier exit plan

Rangers will continue their overhaul this year from last summer, which was intended to get the club closer to competing with Celtic.

Fast-forward to March and with Barry Ferguson installed temporarily in an effort to bring the traditional DNA back onto the pitch, Philippe Clement was given his marching orders following a dismal domestic season.

The saving grace is via the Europa League – not for the first time – as Gers fans build excitement to once again do battle with Jose Mourinho and Fenerbahce, this time at Ibrox (13 March), to seal a place in the last eight.

Tavernier deserves testimonial – it’s non-negotiable

One individual who has never been dropped from Rangers discussion is a man synonymous with the club for better and for worse, James Tavernier.

The captain, 33, recently surpassed 500 Gers appearances in an absolutely incredible milestone, and has one year remaining on his contract after this summer.

It’s almost certain to say he won’t be signing another one at Ibrox, and Rangers should probably look to cash in now. New blood is required if the 49ers Enterprises-inspired consortium are going to put their money where their mouth is.

Tavernier has seen it all at Rangers and was as representative of the successful Steven Gerrard era as he was of the downfall under subsequent management.

Derek Ferguson recently admitted even the idea of offering a Rangers testimonial to the skipper could divide some supporters, but clubs have given out commemorative days to players for service dwarfed by that of Tavernier.

He deserves his day; he has seen enough bleak ones and shouldered responsibility often more than his fair share.

Rangers captain will be remembered fondly in years to come

The view is understandable that the senior pros on the pitch during the difficult times can be perceived as embodying those periods.