TAV A HEART!

Gerrard backs Gers skipper James to find his best form again

STEVEN GERRARD has pleaded with Rangers fans to start showing skipper James Tavernier their love.

The Ibrox boss revealed he’s ready to take the full-back off spot kicks after he missed his third penalty of the season in the 2-1 win over Motherwell.

But he also insisted Tavernier’s rehab from recent ropey performances isn’t being helped by criticism from his own support.

Tavernier made two costly errors against Young Boys in the Europa League, was at fault in last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Hearts and almost cost his side dear against Well.

However, Jermain Defoe cancelled out Devante Cole’s opener before Filip Helander (inset) struck with his first goal for

Rangers 10 minutes from time – off a Tavernier corner.

Gerrard said: “I’d like the crowd to help James a bit more. Sometimes when it’s tough and you’re not at your best, you need your crowd to be with you rather than against you.

“So, there’s a plea for the crowd to stay with him because he will play through it and he can change games, like he did for us today.

“It was an excellent delivery for

Filip’s goal and a fantastic header, but James needs his people now – it’s important.

“There were a few groans and moans and it doesn’t help. I understand it. I totally get it. I was just as frustrated as them on the sidelines.

“But when you are a player in the firing line and not everything is going for you, you need your people with you. You need your team-mates with you, especially where we are.

“Yes, we didn’t hit the level against Motherwell, but we are in a good place in the Europa League, have a semi-final this weekend and are top of the league besides goal difference. We need the fans with us.”