Andy Halliday thinks Leeds would be a good fit for Rangers captain James Tavernier

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Andy Halliday has told Open Goal that he believes Leeds United would be a good fit for Rangers captain James Tavernier, as the right-back continues to shine for Steven Gerrard’s men in both Scottish football – and in the Europa League.

Probably the best player in Scottish football right now, 29-year-old Tavernier has had a hand in 27 goals during his 26 appearances in all competitions – from right-back. He has scored a whopping 16 times, creating 11 assists.

Even without his nine penalties, he has still scored seven times from open play which is stunning for a right-back. He has spearheaded Rangers’ pursuit of 55, and the Gers’ attempts to stop Celtic’s pursuit of 10 Scottish Premiership titles in a row.

Halliday, who played alongside Tavernier until the summer before he joined Hearts, compared Tavernier to Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold and thinks the West Workshire-born defender would be ideal for a club like Leeds.

“Defensively there have been questions, fair enough,” Halliday said. “But his numbers alone – Trent Alexander-Arnold is the best in the world but I don’t think he’s a great defender. They’re both modern-day full-backs.

“It needs to be the right team for Tav. See if it was like a West Brom, backs against the wall – that won’t suit him. But it is my biggest fear that he could leave in January. I think like a Leeds, or something.”

TBR’s view – Tavernier would be a superb signing, but harsh on Ayling?

There is no doubt that on current form, Tavernier would be a top addition for most Premier League sides. An England call-up has even been touted given his ratio of goals and assists – given it is simply not a case of Scottish football being a lower level.

That is because Tavernier has proved his worth in Europe. In five Europa League group games, he has two goals and three assists. For an attacking side like Leeds, as Halliday says, he would be a good addition. But Luke Ayling has also been excellent.

Should Leeds go in for Tavernier, Ayling would be right to feel aggrieved given his form for the Yorkshire side.