Rangers: Dujon Sterling has proved he cannot be James Tavernier replacement after evidence vs Motherwell
Rangers are facing the daunting prospect of trying to replace James Tavernier at right-back ahead of next season.
The 35-year-old is set to depart the club after playing a starring role at Ibrox across the last 11 years, and his exit will leave a sizeable gap in the squad.
Danny Rohl and the recruitment staff will already be thinking of ways that they can make up for the loss of the veteran, who has confirmed that he will leave at the end of his contract this summer.
Dujon Sterling has regularly been used in the right-back role of late, but he was culpable on Sunday afternoon, as Rangers’ title chances were dealt a major blow.
Rangers were beaten 3-2 at home by Motherwell, and Sterling endured the kind of afternoon that may well force Rohl into the market this summer.
⚽ Rangers Matchday ⚽
Team news, line-ups, expert previews and verdicts, and tactical analysis for every Gers fixture.
VISIT THE RANGERS MATCH HUBDujon Sterling not good enough to be first-choice right-back
Sterling has been a useful option for Rohl since he returned from a long-term injury back in December, and that may have had the boss lining him up to step into Tavernier’s shoes.
The 26-year-old has been given the nod ahead of the veteran on several occasions in recent weeks, but Rohl may think twice about his plans after the way that he performed against Motherwell.
| Stats | Sterling Total |
| Minutes | 77 |
| Accurate Passes | 18/20 (90%) |
| Chances Created | – |
| Defensive Contributions | 9 |
| Tackles | 3 |
| Duels Won | 7/9 (77%) |
The visitors’ first two goals both came down Rangers’ right flank, with Sterling having little answer for the attacking endeavours of Jens Berthel Askou’s side.
That was particularly evident on the second goal, when he was miles away from winger Emmanuel Longelo, who was left with a simple tap-in at the back post.
Sterling’s defensive instincts were badly exposed by Motherwell, and it should now be clear to Rohl that he cannot become the first-choice right-back if Rangers want to challenge for trophies next term.
The former Chelsea man’s versatility undoubtedly makes him a handy squad player, but the Gers have got to aim higher if they are being true to themselves.
Rangers ready for defensive rebuild this summer
Football Insider revealed at the start of March that Rangers will add at least one new centre-back to their group this summer, with Rohl’s options currently relatively light in that area of the pitch.
The Glasgow giants are keen to avoid relying on loan signings in the spine of the team next year, but are currently set to go into next term with just three senior centre-backs in the squad.
Tavernier’s departure has also now created a necessity to add a new face on the right side of the defence, meaning that an impromptu rebuild looks set to be on the cards.
Rangers’ defence has looked shaky in recent weeks, as they have shipped eight goals in their last four games, but it looks as though it could be a totally new-look unit that starts next season.
Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Rangers Insider Access
Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.