Steve Bruce quashes talk of Newcastle return for Rangers captain James Tavernier

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Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has moved to quash rumours that Rangers captain James Tavernier will return to St James’ Park this summer.

As per the Daily Record, Bruce is confused about the source of the rumours linking him to the man who got 17 goals for Steven Gerrard’s Gers last term.

He said: “I really don’t know where that’s come from. Any manager will be the same, I hate it when any manager talks about my players so I won’t comment on anyone else’s.

“But I don’t know where that’s come from. I’ve been linked with about 32 right-backs and another two today.”

Of course it may be the case that Bruce is working on a deal for Tavernier and is trying to throw the press off the scent – but it appears unlikely.

The links to Tavernier always looked as if they’d been cooked up because the defender used to play for Newcastle and the Magpies could do with someone to battle DeAndre Yedlin.

It would be a shock if Bruce did swoop for the Gers skipper – although he would add quality, leadership and set-piece excellence – and it looks as if he’ll be displaying those qualities at Ibrox again next season.