Rangers Captain James Tavernier Targets Four More Years as Contract Expires
Rangers captain James Tavernier has declared his intention to continue playing professional football for another four years, regardless of where his future lies next season. The English defender, who will turn 35 in October, sees his current contract expire at the end of the campaign, leaving his long-term association with the Glasgow club in doubt.
Uncertain Future at Ibrox
Tavernier admitted he is in the dark about the possibility of extending his stay at Rangers into a 12th season. He acknowledged that upcoming matches against Motherwell and Hibernian could potentially mark his final appearances at Ibrox. Despite no longer being an automatic selection under manager Danny Rohl, the veteran full-back remains confident in his physical capabilities and contribution to the game.
'I'll keep playing, 100 per cent,' Tavernier asserted. 'I'm not slowing down. I'm still putting in numbers. My body feels great. Easily, I think I've got another three or four years, especially if young boys are cramping up before me.'
He highlighted his robust fitness record, noting he has never suffered muscular injuries throughout his career, which he attributes to diligent self-care. Tavernier joined Rangers from Wigan Athletic in 2015 when the club was in the Championship under Mark Warburton. Over his tenure, he has won each major domestic honour once and become the top-scoring defender in British football history.
No Contract Talks Yet
However, it appears increasingly likely that next month could signal the end of his time at Rangers, with the player confirming no discussions have taken place regarding a new contract. 'Not currently, but that would be out of my hands if there was,' he explained. 'I'm fully focused on the team and my performances, and there's a team behind me who deals with that kind of stuff.'
Tavernier emphasised his short-term mindset, stating he avoids long-term planning and instead concentrates on immediate challenges. 'I'm just focusing on Motherwell and what I have to do this weekend. That's always been my mindset,' he said. When considering his next career move, family considerations will be paramount. 'It will be about what's right for myself and my family. I play for my family; they're such a big part of my life,' he added.
Title Race Focus
More immediately, Tavernier is dedicated to leading Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title across the remaining five matches. Rangers currently trail Hearts by one point and hold a two-point advantage over third-placed Celtic, setting up a tense finale to the season.
Reflecting on the team's journey under Rohl, Tavernier believes securing the championship would carry extra significance. 'It would be a special one from the start of the season to now,' he remarked. 'We've got an important month, and we have to keep that foot pressed to the floor and really keep on pushing harder and harder because that's what it's going to take to win this.'
He also revealed his competitive nature extends beyond the pitch, sharing that he never lets his son win when playing video games together. James Tavernier was appearing on behalf of SPFL title sponsor William Hill.
