“Philippe Clement Stuns Rangers Fans: Why He Dropped James Tavernier Despite Pre-Season Promise!”
“Philippe Clement Defends Shocking Decision to Drop James Tavernier: ‘He Can’t Play Every Game’ as Rangers Prepare for Crucial Europa League Clash with Olympiacos”
Rangers boss Philippe Clement has come under scrutiny for his decision to bench club captain James Tavernier for tonight’s pivotal Europa League match against Olympiacos. The experienced right-back, who has been a key figure at Ibrox for years, will watch from the sidelines as Dujon Sterling steps in to fill the role. Clement, however, has played down the controversy, insisting that Tavernier simply can’t be expected to play every match, especially given the high demands of a gruelling season.
The 33-year-old defender has faced criticism from some sections of the Rangers support this season, and his performance at Hampden on the weekend, where he was substituted as the team chased a semi-final winner against Motherwell, added fuel to the fire. Clement’s decision to drop Tavernier is in line with his earlier comments at the start of the campaign, where he stated that the captain would not be an automatic starter in every game.
With Leon Balogun and Tom Lawrence also making way for Robin Propper and Mo Diomande in the lineup, Clement is clearly willing to rotate his squad to ensure fresh legs for the demanding fixtures ahead. The decision to rest Tavernier in Greece is a bold move, but Clement believes it’s necessary to manage his players carefully as they navigate a packed fixture schedule.
“Philippe Clement Explains Bold Decision to Drop James Tavernier: ‘Tav Will Not Play Every Game’ as Rangers Face Olympiacos”
Philippe Clement has addressed the growing concerns surrounding his decision to drop James Tavernier for Rangers’ crucial Europa League match against Olympiacos. Speaking to Rangers TV, Clement explained that rotation was necessary, particularly given the demands of a packed schedule. He pointed out that Leon Balogun, who has featured heavily this season, was also left out due to recent fitness concerns after suffering from cramps.
Clement continued, “Leon has played a lot of games. He also cramped up a few days ago, so we’re always watching out for that. Robin has been training really well, and with Dujon, he’s in a good period now. The last two weeks after we solved the problems with his injury, he’s been ready.”
The decision to bench Tavernier, 33, comes in line with Clement’s pre-season statements that the Rangers skipper would not be an ever-present fixture in the lineup. Clement emphasized that Dujon Sterling, who has been in strong form recently after overcoming injury issues, has earned his opportunity, particularly in a matchup against Olympiacos’ quick and skillful wingers.”
It’s rotation in the squad,” Clement said. “Like we said before the season, Tav will not play all the games. Dujon is pushing there, so it’s an interesting game to see him against a winger with a lot of speed and individual actions. Dujon needs to use his qualities there.”
With the season’s demands only increasing, Clement’s decision signals his commitment to squad rotation and ensuring players like Tavernier are managed effectively to maintain peak performance throughout the year.