Barry Ferguson says Rangers should extend first-team regular's contract

Barry Ferguson would like to see Rangers offer James Tavernier a short-term contract at Ibrox.

The right-back’s current contract at the Gers expires at the end of the season and uncertainty remains around his future.

Ferguson has acknowledged that the English defender’s frailties at the back can be questioned by fans, but he’s still a quality full-back.

The 34-year-old has been in and out of the starting lineup in recent weeks, but the captain showed what he brings to the table after scoring in the 4-1 win over Aberdeen.

Danny Rohl should rely on Tavernier for the upcoming campaign, but it remains to be seen what the German manager decides.

Why James Tavernier contract extension makes complete sense at Rangers

It will surely be hard to replace Tavernier at Ibrox, with the right-back boasting considerable experience.

The veteran full-back’s attacking qualities aren’t up for debate and he’s currently the Gers’ leading goalscorer this season.

With 14 goals and six assists in all competitions in the 2025-26 campaign, the defender has outdone every attacking player at the Light Blues.

Max Aarons hasn’t lived up to expectations at the Glaswegian outfit, while Dujon Sterling’s persistent fitness issues make him unreliable, making Tavernier’s contract extension a no-brainer.

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show on 30 March, Ferguson said, “I think there should be [another contract]. I’ve said it for years, it’s always up for debate, and I can see why, because sometimes people go on about his defensive frailties. But in my opinion, Tavernier is still a top full-back. You saw him last weekend against Aberdeen with the free-kick.

“He’s come back into the team the last couple of games. He’s been really solid. In my opinion, you can’t buy a wee bit of experience. At some stage, you will need to strengthen that area, but you know what you’re getting from him week in, week out. He’s there every single training session. He’s always available, and I’m not saying play him every game, but for me, I would give him a new one-year extension.”

Andrew Cavenagh can focus funds on priority transfer target if James Tavernier stays

Tavernier is the least of the worries at Rangers, with Andrew Cavenagh clearly desperate for a reliable number nine at Ibrox.

The Govan side have spent a significant sum on Youssef Chermiti, Bojan Miovski and Ryan Naderi in the last two transfer windows, but they’ve certainly failed to live up to expectations.

If the captain stays for another year, the Gers may be able to focus their funds on signing a new striker who can score consistently next season.

Tavernier has undoubtedly earned Rohl’s faith as the Glaswegian outfit push for the William Hill Premiership title.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.