Rangers: Steven Gerrard and John Lundstram react as James Tavernier confirms exit
Rangers captain James Tavernier has confirmed that he will be leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer.
The right-back’s future has been shrouded in speculation in recent months, with his deal at Ibrox only running until the end of the season, and he has now shared his final decision on Instagram.
The 34-year-old posted a lengthy message thanking the Gers’ players, staff and fans over the course of his 11-year stay at Ibrox, which he concluded by saying: “This club will always be a part of men, and I will always be a part of it.”
Tavernier’s decision to depart comes amid Danny Rohl’s side fighting to secure their first Scottish Premiership title since 2020-21, and the veteran is still expected to play a crucial part in the run-in.
Rangers’ transfer plans were set to see them strengthen in several departments ahead of next season, and they must now find a way of replacing their influential skipper.
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VISIT THE RANGERS TRANSFER HUBSteven Gerrard reacts amid flood of messages for James Tavernier
Tavernier confirmed on Wednesday morning that the 2025-26 campaign will be his last in Rangers colours, after over 550 appearances for the Glasgow giants.
The Newcastle United academy graduate has enjoyed some remarkable seasons at Ibrox, including a truly incredible 2023-24 campaign, which saw him notch 36 goal contributions in all competitions from the right side of defence.
| Stats | Tavernier Totals |
| Apps (Starts) | 31 (23) |
| G/A | 12 |
| Chances Created per 90 | 2.66 |
| Successful Dribbles per 90 | 0.79 |
| Tackles per 90 | 2.24 |
| Duels Won per 90 | 5.6 |
Tavernier’s influence may have waned a little in recent months, but that has done little to diminish the legacy that he has built for himself during his time wearing royal blue.
Messages of support quickly poured in for the skipper from Rangers players past and present after he announced his imminent exit, as the love for the outgoing star was clear to see.
Current Rangers heroes Emmanuel Fernandez and Dujon Sterling both simply replied to Tavernier’s post by with a goat emoji, while ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard replied with a love heart emoji and an applause emoji.
Tavernier’s former teammate John Lundstram also added a heartfelt message, as he commented: “One of the best. Never ever hid in the hard times and delivered at the biggest times! Absolute legend.”
Rangers already have their eyes on Tavernier’s replacement
Football Insider revealed at the end of March that Rangers are pushing to sign Luca Stephenson this summer, after some impressive displays during his loan spell with Dundee United.
Rohl and Co. are facing strong competition from Celtic in the race to secure the signature of the Liverpool youngster, who has excelled in the Premiership so far this term.
The 22-year-old has become a key figure at Tannadice, and that has unsurprisingly attracted the attention of both sides of the Old Firm, who feel that he could be available on a permanent deal this summer.
Rangers are sure to consider a number of options to add to their squad in place of Tavernier, but Stephenson has become the first right-back to have Ibrox eyes trained on him.
It remains to be seen how Liverpool will react to the interest, as they still view him as a promising talent for the future.
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