Philippe Clement Questions James Tavernier's Role in Rangers' Strategy

During a recent Europa League clash against Olympiakos, James Tavernier, the club captain, was benched by coach Philippe Clement. This decision highlighted doubts regarding Tavernier's influence on the squad, especially as he had been dropped from the lineup multiple times in recent matches. In Tavernier's absence, Dujon Sterling and later Nana Kasanwirjo filled in well, showcasing that the team could perform effectively without the skipper on the pitch. The match revealed a crisis of form for several players, including midfielder Diomande, who, despite being regarded as a key prospect, had not been performing up to par. Tom Lawrence's injury opened the door for Diomande to play in the No 10 role even though his recent performances were disappointing. In central midfield, however, Barron and Raskin developed a strong partnership that significantly contributed to the team's play, with Barron proving to be a standout player in the challenging atmosphere of Athens. As Rangers faced this tough European fixture, it became evident that the team must redefine their strategies moving forward, especially regarding player selections and formations. With Tavernier’s position in jeopardy, Clement’s management decisions will be crucial in determining the team’s future performance and prospects within the league and European competitions. The response from fans and analysts alike illustrates that the club may be entering a pivotal phase of reassessing its leadership on the field, suggesting a blend of opportunity and uncertainty in the days to come.