McAvennie: Gerrard has 'massive' Tavernier-Patterson problem at Rangers after development
Frank McAvennie claims Steven Gerrard has a massive problem at Rangers now Nathan Patterson is a Scotland international.
The Celtic icon, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, predicts the 19-year-old will see plenty of action at the Euros.
Patterson made his Scotland debut on Sunday night after being selected in Steve Clarke's squad for this summer's tournament.
The youngster played plenty of football for Rangers towards the end of the season as James Tavernier struggled with an injury.
As Rangers captain, Tavernier is one of the first names on Gerrard's teamsheet and this, according to McAvennie, gives him a huge problem.
Both players are right backs and McAvennie claims Patterson can't sit on the sidelines as a fully-fledged international.
However, he also insisted Gerrard can't drop his captain and arguably the Gers' best player.
"I think he'll play at the Euros. I really do," McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
"He's possibly Scotland's best option on that side but now Gerrard's got a massive problem.
"Tavernier has been there for years. There's a problem with the two of them now wanting to play.
"You can't have a full Scotland international sitting on the bench at Ibrox. But Tavernier is almost undroppable.
"How does he deal with that? Could he play Tavernier on the wing? I actually think Patterson is a better defender than Tavernier.
"He's defence first, whereas Tavernier does more attacking. I really like him, he's got a big future at Rangers.
"He can't sell Tavernier, he's their best player and captain. But Patterson has to play."
Tavernier, 29, picked up 19 goals and 16 assists in 41 outings for Rangers last season.
Patterson bagged two goals for the Gers during his breakthrough campaign.