Philippe Clement has changed tact slightly on both Connor Goldson and James Tavernier by only ‘expecting’ that they will remain at Rangers, as opposed to ‘hoping’ that they do.

The change in language comes after former Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst was revealed as making a priority this summer to sign Tavernier for his new charges Besiktas, amid the already-in bid from Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq for Tavernier and team mate Goldson.

From what we understand, Rangers have left the decision up to Tavernier, who is aware now of interest in him – and the club will not pressure him into a decision, ditto Goldson.

And Clement quizzed on the pair said:

“Yes, I expect them to be here next season, that is my expectation. My players come to speak with me if they have doubts or if they want to go or if they are out of contract. We have that relationship. If I need to speak to every player where there is a rumour about, then we won’t train too much.”

In short, Clement is now opening the door to the possibility Tavernier may actually leave, by only trying to ‘predict’ the future rather than actually express his explicit desire to keep Tavernier.

Let’s face it, Tavernier’s Rangers race is run, and if Rangers decide to accept any future Turkish bid for the captain on top of the current £8M one received from Gerrard’s lot in Saudi, the ex-Wigan man may be tempted to join his old gaffer in the Mediterranean for a decent payday at a good level of football.

But, of course, regulars to Ibrox Noise will know we have our misgivings about the level and indeed conduct of the Turkish Super Lig, but hey, not our concern is it?

Clement is well aware Tavernier has offers, and he won’t stand in his way if the lad accepts one.

We’ll see how Gio’s impending offer goes down in Tavernier Towers.