Glasgow Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has revealed James Tavernier has an outside chance of being fit for the Gers' Scottish Cup fourth round clash next weekend.

Gerrard provides Tavernier update

Club captain Tavernier has not played since February 18th after picking up an injury during the Gers' Europa League tie with Royal Antwerp (Transfermarkt).

However, speaking prior to Rangers' clash with Hibernian this weekend, Gerrard revealed the right-back may well be available to face Celtic in the cup. He said (via The Glasgow Times):

"I’d say he’s got an outside chance, James, of being involved against Celtic. He is still outside in a one-v-one capacity with the physio but he is progressing pretty well."

Big boost

This is no doubt a big boost for all involved at Ibrox. While a number of players have stood out this campaign, £7.2m-valued Tavernier (Transfermarkt) has arguably been Gerrard's best performer. Going forward, he has been their most dangerous threat, scoring 17 goals and providing 15 assists, while he has been part of a defence that has conceded just 10 times in the Premiership this campaign (BBC).

In Tavernier's absence, the Gers would have an able deputy in Nathan Patterson. The 19-year-old already has two goals for the 55-time Scottish champions and has repaid his manager's faith in him. Tavernier, though, is a step above - if he were to be available, the Gers' chances of progression to the quarter-finals would be far greater.

In other news, Rangers fans are livid at this journalist's comments.