DEVASTATING
IBROX, 12.30, LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
BY GARY RALSTON RANGERS skipper James Tavernier is desperate to end his cycle of “devastating” defeats to Celtic.
The Ibrox full-back won his first game against his arch rivals, in the Scottish Cup semi-final in April 2016 but it has been downhill since.
Tavernier has played 13 times against the Hoops and lost on 10 occasions, drawing twice and conceding 33 goals in the process.
However he insists Rangers are a different animal under Steven Gerrard as he echoed his gaffer’s call for one last push before the winter break.
Asked about his run of losses against the Hoops, the 27-year-old said: “It’s devastating – and I’ve experienced quite a few of them.
“However you never take a previous defeat into the next game.
“We’ve come a long way with a new squad and we’ve improved.
“The gaffer has come in and changed the mindset.
“He has a winning mentality and I’m sure the lads who have signed here and previously would know they need a winning mentality to deliver.
“He has drilled that into RANGERS midfielder Ryan Jack will try to bust his own personal hoodoo today after losing in 23 out of 25 meetings against Celtic.
The former Aberdeen ace has played against the Hoops 21 times in the Premiership, twice in the League Cup and twice in the Scottish Cup.
But Jack has only tasted victory once, drawn once and lost on 23 occasions. us and we take it game by game, wanting to win each one.
“I’m excited for this match. It’s the first Old Firm game of the season at Ibrox and I’m really looking forward to it.
“As long as all the lads bring their ‘A’ game and empty the tank then I’ll be happy. It’s one last push. Don’t leave anything on the pitch. You can’t ask for any more than that.”
Tavernier has already played 36 times this season and the only match he has missed in the first half of the campaign came against Ayr in the League Cup.
It’s the most games he has ever played to this point of a season in his career but he is adamant he has revelled in playing in domestic fixtures and challenging in the Europa League.
He said: “Have I been doing anything special? Eating a lot of spaghetti bolognese!
“Seriously at some moments it has been tough but we have a great medical and fitness team and they have helped me recover to ensure I’m fit.”
Tavernier is the second top scorer for the Light Blues this season with nine goals, most of them penalties, and he boasts a 100 per cent record from 12 yards.
He will not flinch if he’s put on the spot again today and he has also praised the prowess of 20-goal striker Alfredo Morelos.
Tav said: “The only thing that will be going through my mind if we get a late penalty with the score goalless is to make sure I score it.
“However Alfredo’s been tremendous for us. I hope he gets a goal”