James Tavernier: Rangers manager Philippe Clement defends captain amid fan frustration after Celtic defeat | Football News

Rangers manager Philippe Clement has defended the under-fire James Tavernier, insisting he is a “true captain”.

Tavernier came in for a lot of criticism from the Light Blues’ fans for his role in their defeat to Celtic at the Old Firm, with one fan even taking aim at him when he returned to Ibrox after the game.

The 32-year-old has been at the club since 2015, winning one Premier League title and one Scottish Cup, and Clement understands why disgruntled fans single him out.

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“When the team is not performing, the captain is always the first one the fans point to,” he said ahead of Sunday’s match against Dundee United, live on Sky Sports.

“I’ve been in that situation before when I was a player at Brugge for 10 years. I’ve had great moments with titles, cups and victories against big teams, but also really bad moments when fans were really angry and came to talk to me first.

“That’s part of being a captain. Tav has remained very mature, he understands the frustration. He is also frustrated, he wants to win more matches and titles with the club.

“You know, as a manager or captain you are a bit of a symbol and you are the first point of contact for people. We will always be under barricades when times are tough.

“It’s easy to be a captain when things are going well. The real captains are the ones who help you move forward in difficult moments. That’s what Tav did, moving the team forward and helping the new guys integrate.”

Rangers are currently fourth in the Scottish Premiership and five points behind Celtic in the title race.

Although Clement would have preferred to “play the next day” after their Old Firm defeat, he believes the international break helped them.

“We used the two weeks to get some players fitter as they came back from injury, to get into better physical condition and to integrate the new lads.

“We understand the frustration and anger, and that they want to win against their rivals. We want that too.

“It’s not pleasant, but it does help you put things into perspective the next day.

“Over the last two weeks I’ve seen a lot of fans in Glasgow who were very positive and supportive of the club, because they understood that it was the start with a lot of new players and a new project. Don’t just focus on the negative and the heat-of-the-moment reaction.”

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