Rangers defender James Tavernier played through injury against Celtic, former Gers man Alan Hutton has told Football Insider.

The lowdown

Tavernier came off at half time as Rangers fell to a 4-0 defeat at Ajax in their Champions League opener last time out.

As per The Scottish Daily Express, there are now 'fears' over his fitness ahead of their second game against Napoli on Wednesday night.

Tavernier could be seen with an ice pack wrapped out his right knee as he watched on from the bench in the second half last week.

The latest

Hutton, who has frequently worked for BBC Radio 5 Live, says that Tavernier was carrying a minor issue ahead of the Old Firm.

He's hopeful that the Englishman will return against Napoli, expressing concern about the readiness of Adam Devine or Leon King.

He said: “It’s obviously something that he could manage. I heard before the Celtic game that he was carrying a little niggle but when it starts to affect your performance I think that’s when it’s time you have to pull yourself back or the manager has to pull him back and give him the rest that he’s needed.

“Hopefully, going off the other night and then having this little period of rest is going to stand him in good stead for the next game which will be Napoli. It’s an awful big game for the likes of [Adam] Devine or Leon King to be thrown into.“

The verdict

If Tavernier can't shake off the knock in time to face Napoli, it would be a huge blow for Rangers, who need to get some points on the board after their match-day one hammering.

The right-back is clearly a vital player for Van Bronckhorst's side, having played every minute in the league and Champions League until his withdrawal in Amsterdam.

Across the whole squad, only Antonio Colak (seven) can better Tavernier's tally of six goal involvements so far in 2022/23.

Indeed, he's the most prominent creator in the side, averaging 2.8 key passes per 90 (0.5 more than his nearest challenge Ryan Kent).