Tavernier eyeing more glory after signing new deal
RANGERS captain James Tavernier declared their title victory was only the beginning of the journey after signing a two-year contract extension.
The right-back has signed a new deal that commits him to Ibrox until the summer of 2024.
Tavernier has scored 63 goals in 284 appearances since Mark Warburton signed him from Wigan in the summer of 2015.
The 29-year-old, who has netted 17 times this season, said: “I am delighted to extend my contract at this magnificent club. When I arrived six years ago, I soon realised how massive this club is.
“It isn’t a club really — it’s an institution. To captain Rangers to our historic 55th title is a memory I will hold forever.
“It is a privilege and an honour to pull on the famous royal blue, and adding the captain’s armband makes it even more special.
“As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, I am mindful that there is much more work to be done to ensure we uphold the values of Rangers.
“I will continue to strive to be better as a player, captain and make sure we continue to set the standard higher than before — 55 wasn’t the end of the journey, it was only the beginning.”
Steven Gerrard believes there is scope for the former Newcastle player to get better still.
“I am delighted to secure the services of our captain on a new long-term deal,” the Rangers boss said.
“This shows the ambition of both James and the club as we continue to drive forward to fulfil our ambitions, both domestically andineurope.
“James has been a consistent performer for me since I made the decision to hand him the captain’sarmbandin2018.
“His leadership is obvious both on the field and in the dressing room as well.
“He commands respect but ensures he leads with action and not words.
“James can continue to improve, as I know he is hungry to become a better version of himself on a daily basis.”
Meanwhile, Uefa have opened disciplinary proceedings against Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara and Slavia Prague’s Ondrej Kudela after investigating racism claims.
Kudela has been handed a one-match provisional suspension while Uefa investigate allegations of racist abuse levelled against him by Kamara.
Slavia had earlier stated that the Czech international defender would not be travelling to London for their Europa League clash with Arsenal this week because of illness.
The Czech leaders denied Kamara’s claims and accused the Finland midfielder of punching Kudela after their 2-0 victory at Ibrox on March 18.
A Uefa statement added: “Further information about this case will be made available once the Uefa Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has taken a decision in due course.”
Police Scotland are also investigating the allegations against Kudela and Slavia filed a criminalcomplaintagainstkamara.