James Tavernier announces emotional Rangers exit after 11 years, 144 goals and five trophies

Jack Otway
Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:17:48 +0000

James Tavernier has confirmed his departure from Rangers when the current campaign concludes, bringing an end to an 11-year spell at Ibrox.

The 34-year-old right-back holds the distinction of being British football's most prolific defender, having found the net 144 times across 562 outings for the Glasgow club.

The Englishman revealed his decision through an Instagram post, stating that choosing to leave when his contract expires "hasn't been an easy decision".

Throughout his career, Tavernier has accumulated 152 goals in total, cementing his reputation as one of the most attacking full-backs in the British game.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

Tavernier's trophy cabinet from his time at Ibrox includes the Scottish Premiership title secured in 2021, followed by Scottish Cup success the subsequent year.

The League Cup was added to his collection in 2023, completing a domestic treble of honours during his tenure.

Perhaps the most memorable occasion came in 2022, when he led Rangers to the Europa League final in Seville.

However, that European adventure ended in heartbreak as Eintracht Frankfurt prevailed in a penalty shootout.

The defender has served as club captain since 2018, spending eight years leading the Glasgow outfit through both triumph and disappointment on the continental stage.

In his social media statement, Tavernier expressed the profound significance of his role at the club.

LATEST SPORTS NEWS:

Snooker star gives heartbreaking interview revealing struggles after World Championship exit

Scottie Scheffler suffers fresh blow after RBC Heritage and Masters heartbreak

Liam Rosenior in line for dizzying pay-off if Chelsea sack manager after Brighton defeat

"This club has been a huge part of my life and my family's over the past 11 years," he said.

"It's given me so much, both on and off the pitch and from the moment I arrived, I've always tried to give everything I had to represent it in the right way."

The captain spoke of the immense pride he takes from wearing the armband.

"To have had the honour of being made captain of this club since 2018 is something I will always be incredibly proud of," he added.

"Leading this team out, wearing the armband and being trusted in that role has meant more to me that I can properly put into words."

Football fans have paid tribute to the outgoing right-back.

One user wrote on X: "A proper legend. His goals and consistency from right-back have been incredible. Will be strange seeing Rangers without him next season."

A second said: "I’m not even a Rangers fan, but he arguably goes down as a Rangers legend & the amount of fans who continually dig at him need their heads checked."

A third wrote: "End of an era at Ibrox. 11 years of leadership, pens, and loyalty from the captain, Tavernier gave everything for Rangers. Legend. Wishing him the best wherever he goes next! #RangersFC."

And a fourth stated: "I wish him the best of luck he should have left long before now he is doing the right thing for himself and the club."