It hasn’t escaped the majority of Rangers fans that James Tavernier has not ‘looked’ too interested this season, 6 matches in. 2 assists in 6 matches is radically down on his usual staggering numbers, both assists being in fairly ‘rudimentary’ SPL matches (Motherwell and Ross County).

For goals, nothing, and he’s looked distant as an attacker.

The look of a man who in theory would be most definitely leaving Rangers if a deal can be found, but unfortunately, that’s proved a sticking point in Govan.

The two main situations were a Saudi offer which didn’t tempt him, and a Turkish offer which did, but who fell short of Rangers’ €4M asking price.

So Tavernier remains at Ibrox, and it may seem like his heart isn’t in it as it once was. It is also approaching his testimonial year, which adds a complication or two.

But for pure happiness, it’s a relationship which really should be done now – he’s had his time at Rangers and he wants a change – in truth we all do, and that probably even includes his manager, who would never admit that.

Rangers need a new captain. Tavernier is well-past his sell-by date in this regard, but the real truth of his season is eye-opening:

Clement has changed his role a touch: his defending has actually been solid this season – 8 tackles in 3 matches is decent, as is 5 interceptions. He isn’t going forward quite like he did, and is actually working harder at the back now, hence less assists and goals.

Indeed, for defending he’s actually rating as among the best in the SPL this season (7th for both tackling and interceptions), he’s among the best for tackles and interceptions, even if those clearances (3) aren’t as spectacular.

So what does this mean – it means he’s seemingly now playing more as a RB this season – Clement has indeed changed his role, and he’s not allowed to foray forward the same way as before.

Does this mean he’s staying?

It means if the right offer arrives, he will still head out, but this season, if he remains, Tavernier is going to be much more withdrawn, and a lot more defensive.

He will still get forward, but not with the same aggression, because Clement wants his right winger doing what Tav has been. And that’s Cerny.

The next five days may tell us a lot about what the future holds for Tavernier at Rangers.