Steven Gerrard has backed James Tavernier following his performance against BSC Young Boys and a number of fans loved to see it on Twitter.
Steven Gerrard spoke about James Tavernier at today’s press conference. pic.twitter.com/frDR2IJLSZ
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) October 4, 2019
The right-back was considered to be at fault for the defeat to the Swiss outfit in their Europa League meeting on Thursday, with many highlighting the Englishman as someone who made crucial mistakes.
Tavernier gave the ball away for the host’s first goal before he made another error in the final moments of the game to see his side head back to Glasgow without any of the points available on the night (Sky Sports).
It was not the first time recently that the right-back has come under fire, as he missed a penalty against Feyenoord in the opening Europa League group game – although Sheyi Ojo’s strike was enough to give them the victory.
Tavernier did hit back though as he managed to score twice from the spot in their trouncing of Aberdeen last weekend and Gerrard has continued to back his skipper to bounce back and admitted he had been fantastic for him during his time as Ibrox boss.
“James is the captain of this team for a reason,” the Rangers manager said. “He is maturing, he is big enough to handle the criticism that comes his way. That’s one thing you are looking for in your captain. Football is not just about highs and praise and everyone telling you how great you are. It’s about recovering from setbacks, being able to handle the tough times as well as the good times.
“Look, we are all responsible for that result. Of course, there were a couple of mistakes that have affected the result but we are all in it together. He has been absolutely fantastic for me, he has been fantastic for his team-mates and the supporters, he has provided some incredible moments and some fantastic performances. So we have to remember that as well.”
Indeed, fans backed up what Gerrard said and were in full support of his comments on Twitter, with many believing he was saying and doing the right thing.
Here are some of the reactions left by Rangers fans…
Well said gaffer
— Chris Nisbet (@ChrisNisbet8) October 4, 2019
Well said gaffer
— William Kilfedder (@WKilfedder) October 4, 2019
Correct SG. We all make mistakes.
— Ronnie (@RMora2005) October 4, 2019
Well said. Some crazy opinions out there about the captain
— scott mackay (@scottymack68) October 4, 2019
Exactly Stevie G , we are all in it together
— Allan610 (@Allan6101) October 4, 2019
Well said gaffer. Although I have to say I would like the Captain to accept the criticism when he makes silly mistakes and show the desire on the field to make up for it. i.e. if Jack loses the ball, he will bust a gut to win it back. We are all in this together
— Stephen Gallacher (@StephanoGal) October 4, 2019
We’re all gutted but no point crucifying the guy. We can qualify and forget this result.
Well said SG.— Real Jackflash69 (@RJackflash69) October 5, 2019
Well said gaffer nobody shld be e exempt from criticism. Even it has bn over the top about tav thought he shld have fronted up and be the man and captain we all the supporters deserve
— Stuartcarruthers (@Stuartc97554993) October 5, 2019
Rangers fans, do you think Gerrard was saying the right things about Tavernier? Let us know your thoughts by sharing them in the comments section below!
