BLUE INTO ONE DOES GO

Gers No.2 insists Tav & Patterson both have a massive part to play

GARY MCALLISTER reckons Rangers can make room for the world-class numbers of James Tavernier and exciting talent Nathan Patterson in the same line-up.

The Ibrox No.2 is thrilled at the teenager’s progress. Patterson’s development has seen him slot easily into the right-back role when Tavernier has been on the injured list.

The skipper has been an integral part of the title success this term and would likely remain first pick if available but the Rangers No.2 (inset) insists it may not simply be a case of choosing one or the other.

Mcallister and boss Steven Gerrard are investigating future scenarios where they can both get into the side.

Tavernier returned to the bench for last weekend’s clash with Celtic, while Paterson is now being tipped for Scotland honours.

Mcallister said: “What a wonderful position for the manager and everyone here at the club to have two outstanding players in the same position.

“Could that evolve and could there be a little bit of change there? Time will tell.

“The beauty is we’ve got an outstanding youngster and a player whose numbers are probably among the best in the world from that area of the pitch.

“As a club we’re uber delighted to have two outstanding players in that area.

“There are different formations that you never know, we might be able to get the two of them on the pitch at the same time.”

Tavernier could feature for the first time in two months tonight against St Johnstone with Gerrard set to dish out opportunities at Mcdiarmid Park to some of those who didn’t start against Celtic.

Kemar Roofe could also start after coming on as a sub against Celtic.

NATHAN A BLUE GEM Patterson had a great game against Celtic and above, with Gers skipper James Tavernier