James Tavernier breaks Rangers silence on post Celtic fan abuse as captain insists ‘I’m a strong character’

The defender was quizzed for the first time on his post-Old Firm confrontation with a raging Gers fan

Resilient James Tavernier has shrugged off his confrontation with a raging Rangers fan in the wake of a painful Old Firm defeat.

Tonight’s 2-0 victory over Malmo marked the Ibrox captain’s finest performance as the Gers secured their first-ever victory over Swedish opponents at the seventh try. Tavernier, 32, was ecstatic at the outcome as Philippe Clement’s team won three straight games without giving up.

The Light Blues supporters are afraid they won’t be able to match the defending champions after Celtic’s dominant start to the season. Tavernier experienced the fury of an enraged fan during the 3-0 loss at Celtic Park earlier in the month. When asked about the video after it went popular on social media for the first time, the captain responded to TNT Sports by saying, “It’s part and parcel.”

As the captain, it is my responsibility to lead from the front and accept criticism while also drawing positives from our successes. No, I have a strong character, therefore I can handle everything that comes my way. Following it, the fans undoubtedly showed tremendous support, and as a squad, we just need to keep moving forward and in the correct way.”

Tavernier remarked, “Our fans always require us to win games no matter who it is. I’m happy to be able to put smiles back on their faces tonight.” You see the crowds who are coming over and the fans that are watching from home, and they want us to perform, and we did that tonight”

Rangers’ season-best performance was unquestionably delivered on a night when the Glasgow giants had the opportunity to put FIVE past the Swedish champions. However, Tavernier believes that the Rangers’ victory in the Europa League will help infuse new optimism into the team.

“Yeah, we’re still working hard on the training pitch,” he replied. Together, we’re becoming more formidable. Our young team is settling in quite well. We aim to maintain this momentum, provide outstanding performances, and continue to grow in strength. I felt that was a fantastic outcome for us.