Former Rangers captain James Tavernier has officially signed a one-year deal with Maccabi Tel Aviv, ending recent speculation regarding a potential return to Ibrox.
The 34-year-old departed Glasgow as a free agent in May after a highly productive 11-year stint that yielded 144 goals across 565 appearances. Former midfielder Andy Halliday recently urged the club to bring back the veteran to solve ongoing creative struggles. Halliday insisted the full-back was “an upgrade straight away” who never hid from intense scrutiny.
As Rangers face a tactical challenge without their historic talisman, Derek McInnes must now mold his current squad to replace that output. The manager can no longer rely on past stalwarts to deliver crucial goals and assists from the back.
New Challenge Under Kenny Miller
The completed transfer officially draws a definitive line under those reunion calls. The defender is instead reuniting with Kenny Miller, who serves as head coach for the Israeli Premier League side.
“It’s a real honour to join a club with such a rich history as Maccabi Tel Aviv,” Tavernier said after signing a contract that includes an option for a further season.
He added: “Coming to a new country and experiencing a different environment is something I’ve always wanted to do in my career, so there’s a real excitement about the opportunity and the challenge ahead.”
Rangers will next host St. Mirren in the Premiership at Ibrox Stadium on Wednesday.