‘He is hungry’: Rangers boss Gerrard says 29-year-old can help Ibrox Euro ambitions

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Steven Gerrard says James Tavernier’s contract extension is a sign of ambition on the part of both player and club.

Tavernier has enjoyed a superb season at Ibrox, contributing 17 goals and 15 assists as newly-crowned champions Rangers have gone unbeaten in the Premiership.

He was also impressive during a European run that saw them reach the last 16 of the Europa League for the second consecutive season.

That form has been rewarded with a two-year contract extension that will tie him to the club until 2024, and manager Gerrard is clearly happy with the news.

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Speaking on the official Rangers website, he said: “I am delighted to secure the services of our captain on a new long-term deal.

“This shows the ambition of both James and the club as we continue to drive forward to fulfil our ambitions, both domestically and in Europe. James has been a consistent performer for me since I made the decision to hand him the captain’s armband in 2018.

“His leadership is obvious both on the field and in the dressing room as well. He commands respect but ensures he leads with action and not words.

“James can continue to improve, as I know he is hungry to become a better version of himself on a daily basis.”

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Tavernier was brought to Ibrox from Wigan Athletic in July 2015 by Mark Warburton, and has gone on to make 284 appearances for the side, scoring 63 goals.

Gerrard’s men are next in action on Sunday, when they welcome Hibs to Ibrox in their first post-split Premiership fixture.