Rangers hero set for debut under familiar gaffer if 'red tape' is cut after completing medical at new club
Former Ibrox captain set to link up with another Rangers icon
Rangers hero James Tavernier could make his debut for Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv as early as Monday if ‘red tape’ is cut following his medical.
The 34-year old right back left Ibrox at the end of last season after 11 years of service to the club. Since then, he’s been linked with clubs across Europe and America, as well as a Rangers return, however the Isreali Premier League side have now won the race, as he pens a one-year deal.
Once the move is over the line, the Englishman will play under fellow Govan icon Kenny Miller - who became manager of Maccabi in May. The former striker scored 116 goals for Rangers over three spells during his playing career, helping the side win five major honours.
Tavernier set for imminent debut
The Daily Record report that if ‘red tape’ including work permit arrangements is cut then Tavernier will be available for Miller for their league fixture against current champions Hapoel Beer Sheva on Monday night. If this comes to fruiting - a grand revealing is expected for the former Rangers skipper - who would become one of the most high profile signings of all time in the Israeli league.
It’s been a solid start for Miller and co so far in his latest challenge as his side have won two from two domestically. They were however defeated on aggregate by Swiss side Lugano to crash out of the UEFA Conference League qualifiers. Miller took over from former Celtic gaffer Ronny Deila earlier this year after he left the club. The manager already has experience with Tavernier as they played together during his third spell at Ibrox.
Tavernier set for new challenge
Tavernier made over 500 appearances for Rangers and scored 141 goals from right back. Despite this, he left in a chaotic fashion in May due to a dispute with former manager Danny Rohl. He eventually was able to wave goodbye to Ibrox before their home clash against Hibs.
Former Ibrox teammate-turned pundit Andy Halliday believes Rangers could’ve done ‘a lot worse’ than re-signing the striker during the window after a poor start to the season. He said: “The first thing Rangers should do is pick up the phone and ring James Tavernier. He’d be an upgrade to what they’ve got. They could do a lot worse.”
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