James Tavernier: ‘I feel fitter than ever’ – age ‘no problem’ for Rangers captain

James Tavernier is convinced he has plenty to offer Rangers after losing his regular starting place, with the captain insisting he is “more hungry than ever”.

The 33-year-old was among the substitutes against Dundee United and Nice but restored to the first XI for Sunday’s 1-0 win at St Johnstone.

With right-back alternatives Dujon Sterling and Neraysho Kasanwirjo unavailable, Tavernier was involved in the decisive moment in Perth, pressuring Jason Holt into a second-half own goal.

He stressed his age and fitness should not be an issue.

“I don’t see the age being a problem,” he said. “Three months ago I think I missed one game.

“OK, I’ve gone up one number in my age, but I feel fitter than ever to play every single game.

“So it’s obviously different, unusual, but it’s down to me to be really professional and keep working really hard, and try to be a leader behind the scenes and really push the boys on and anyone who’s asked to put on the shirt has to perform.

“I’m used to playing three games a week, that’s what I really love to do. It’s what I’ve been used to for so many years.”

Tavernier is yet to score in the Scottish Premiership this season, while he has provided three assists in his 12 appearances.

Last term, the defender scored 17, with 10 assists. In the prior league campaign, those figures were 16 and nine.

“The stats and the numbers I put in are still right up there,” he continued. “It’s just about me continuing to work hard and when asked to play, then deliver a performance.

“You obviously want to be playing every single game. That’s just in your nature. But there’s a level of you’ve got to be professional and really help the team if you’re not.

“And when asked to play, you’ve got to obviously make an impact.”