Ally McCoist declares James Tavernier fresh Rangers contract verdict as captain faces new manager talks

Ally McCoist wants Rangers captain James Tavernier to sign a new contract in the summer.

But the Ibrox legend insists Tavernier faces showdown talks with the new Rangers manager in the summer over the skipper’s future.

Tavernier will mark his 10th anniversary as a Rangers player at the end of the season having made 505 appearances for the club, scoring 130 goals from right-back in the process.

The Englishman divides opinion amongst Rangers fans. He isn’t the best defender and has captained Rangers through a barren spell as far as winning trophies are concerned.

But his contributions and professionalism cannot be denied. And McCoist still thinks Tavernier has plenty more to give in Govan beyond 2026 when his contract runs out.

Ally McCoist wants James Tavernier to stay at Rangers

McCoist understands that he’s been critical himself of Tavernier over the years, but that doesn’t change his desire for the Yorkshireman to stay at Rangers.

Speaking to the Daily Record, McCoist said: “Listen, Tavernier has been brilliant for Rangers. One or two people – including myself – have had a wee pop at some of the defensive stuff. That’s by the by because he’s been a fabulous servant to Rangers.

“His figures in forward areas are nothing short of remarkable. Whoever the new manager is, the first thing they’ve got to do is sit down with him and see what he wants to do.

“Who have we got that can play right-back? You’ve got to weigh up all these options as well. But first of all, you need to find out what he wants to do.

“If he wants to sign another contract, then there’s a discussion to be had. But if he decides he’s had enough and wants to try something else towards the end of his career.