‘I don’t understand’ – Cyriel Dessers slams what he’s hearing about ‘unbelievable’ Rangers player

Rangers skipper James Tavernier came on towards the end of the match against Olympiakos in the Europa League in midweek.

Philippe Clement took Dujon Sterling off in the 52nd minute, and many people thought the Ibrox skipper would replace him.

However, Neraysho Kasanwirjo replaced Sterling, and he did a decent job.

The decision has left many pundits thinking whether Clement’s approach is a clear indication that Tavernier has dropped down the pecking order.

There are even suggestions that Tavernier’s future at Ibrox is under scrutiny. He was linked with a move in the summer but remained at the club.

Clement has suggested that the club needs more leaders on the team than just one. This has further added fuel to the fire over the ongoing Tavernier’s situation.

James Tavernier retains the support of Rangers players

Cyriel Dessers, who scored the equaliser for the Gers in midweek, said that the squad consider Tavernier as their skipper and the leader, and that will not change.

Dessers said, as quoted by the Daily Record: “He’s our skipper. He’s our leader. He will always lead the team out.

“He leads by example all the time. James is an amazing player. The things he did already for this club are unbelievable.

“He’s also an amazing human being. I don’t understand the criticism he gets.

“If I just look at his stats as a right full-back, 400 games for this club, he won the league, he won cups, all the years that he’s been here, his goals, his assists, that says it all for him.

“He keeps going every day in training. He’s there – he’s working hard every day in the gym. I think that speaks for him.”

Philippe Clement must not get carried away

Tavernier has been a great servant for the club, and he is a legend at Ibrox.

However, Clement must pick the best squad to get results. The 33-year-old is no longer the same player he was a few years back.

The Belgian boss cannot use him in two or three games every week. Tavernier is still an important player for Rangers, but he is no longer a guaranteed starter.

His experience and leadership qualities are useful, but Clement must do what he feels is best for the team.