Rangers to accept Saudi bid for ‘phenomenal’ James Tavernier this summer
Rangers should look to make a “few bob” out of captain James Tavernier this summer despite his “phenomenal” stats, Derek Ferguson has said.
The full-back – who surpassed 100 goals for the Light Blues last month – has been linked with a move to Al-Ettifaq (Daily Record, April 24), who are managed by ex-Gers boss Steven Gerrard.
Chris Jack later said he would be surprised if he was allowed to depart unless a “huge” offer was received for the 32-year-old.
But ex-Rangers man Ferguson, speaking to Ibrox News, said the club should look to cash in and bring in younger talent as part of a summer rebuild.
Asked if Rangers should accept a big offer if one comes in, he replied: “Absolutely, there’s not even two ways about it.
“He has been a good servant, his stats are phenomenal, but at times defensively that’s where the criticism comes from the support.
“I just think sometimes he’s been at the club for a good while now, you could argue the team’s underachieved, there’s reasons for that, but if you look at this stats – this is what everyone goes back to – he’s been a good servant.
“If he does get a good move he goes with our best wishes and hopefully we can make a few bob out of him.
“It is what it is with Tav we appreciate him but I just think if we get a few bob for him we take it, goes with our best wishes, but sometimes it’s just your time, your times up, it’s time to leave.
“We need young, hungry players that want to prove themselves and hopefully Philippe Clement’s going to get the ammunition to go out and get them to bring them in.
“But that’s the $24million question isn’t it? Will there be will there be finances for him? There’s a few too many that have been there too long and it’s time for change.”
Will Rangers sell James Tavernier this summer?
It sometimes feels like Tavernier can be made a bit of a scapegoat and there are many who are argue the club should have had way more success in the past few years.
It’s an argument that does hold some weight but at the same time Tavernier should be respected for the service he has given the club and the contributions he has made.
At the same time, though, given his age and the fact that Rangers need to rebuild this summer then it would make sense to cash in if decent money is offered.
With Dujon Sterling already at the club and the likes of West Ham defender Ben Johnson linked with a move, it does feel like he might be moved on.
In other Rangers news, the club have been boosted by what Atalanta did.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.