Rangers captain James Tavernier has been sensationally left out of the matchday squad for tonight's Scottish Premiership clash against Hibernian at Ibrox, following a reported bust-up with manager Danny Rohl.
The 34-year-old defender was expected to bid an emotional farewell to the Rangers faithful in what was supposed to be the final home league match of the 2025-26 season. However, Rohl's decision to drop Tavernier from the starting lineup sparked a heated exchange between the two, according to the Scottish Sun.
Tavernier, who has been a stalwart for the Light Blues with 52 appearances across all competitions this term, was visibly frustrated after being substituted in Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Celtic. He had been expecting to start tonight but found himself on the outside looking in.
The veteran fullback proceeded to address his teammates in their prematch meeting before taking his place in the stands alongside his family, contradicting initial reports that he had stormed out of Ibrox. In a classy gesture, Rangers legend John Greig made an official presentation to Tavernier on behalf of the club, acknowledging his immense contributions over the years.
This development comes after Tavernier announced in April that he would leave Rangers when his contract expires at the end of the season—a decision that reportedly caught the club off guard as they had anticipated further discussions about his future. With his quality, experience, and soon-to-be free agent status, the right-back has already been linked with several English clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Light Blues travel to Falkirk for their season finale on Saturday, and Tavernier will be desperate to feature in what could be his final appearance in a Rangers shirt. For a player who has given everything to the club—including leading them to multiple trophies—being denied a proper home send-off is a bitter pill to swallow.
Whether this marks the end of Tavernier's Ibrox career remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Rangers captain won't go down without a fight, even if that fight is now with his own manager.