Rangers legend opts to remain at Ibrox despite offer of Turkish delights (original) (raw)

After more than 400 games for Rangers, James Tavernier has cemented his place as a club legend but he was ready move away from Ibrox in the final days of this year’s transfer window.

Having been linked with a host of clubs in the last few years, 32-year-old Tavernier emerged as an option for a number of Turkish clubs – who are the last major league to close their transfer window.

HITC exclusively revealed earlier this month that following fan abuse in the aftermath of Rangers’ Old Firm loss to Celtic, Tavernier was offered an exit route from the club and was subject of approaches from Turkey.

READ MORE – Rangers failed with late bid for 31-goal forward, Scottish side put off by asking price for deal

James Tavernier of Rangers celebrates with Manager Philippe Clement after the team's victory in the Viaplay Cup Semi Final match between Heart of M...

Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

James Tavernier turns his back on potential Turkish exit

Istanbul Basaksehir were keen along with Fenerbahce and Galatasaray but despite talks HITC can reveal that Tavernier has decided to remain in Glasgow.

Sources with knowledge of the situation have confirmed to HITC that after considering his options, Tavernier has decided to stay to despite the fact he could have received a major pay rise in Turkey.

Tavernier believes he has ‘unfinished’ business and he does not want to appear he is disserting the club merely because of the criticism directed at him by what he acknowledges is a ‘minority’ of Rangers fans.

Rangers were understood to be open to moving Tavernier on, if a sufficient offer came in and they had also looked at potential options including free agent Cyrus Christie.

Philippe Clement ready to stick with Tavernier

Gers chief Philippe Clement never singled out Tavernier for criticism and is believed to be happy to continue working with the Yorkshire-born full-back.

Earlier this month, Clement insisted he was happy for Tavernier to remain at the club.

“He was very important last season. You know in the moments that you don’t win everything that everybody looks at the captain,” said Clement.

“That’s part of the job. He fits that role well because he can manage that. I have seen in the past a lot of people break in that situation.

“I think that he had one disadvantage last season that he played all the games and that is also my responsibility.

“So because of that he was not as fresh as he should be in moments, so that is something that we want to change this season.

“I think Tav can have a really strong season and he is really hungry for that. I am very confident and he has been really important with his goals and assists.”