My Rangers rollercoaster has gone by so fast - but I'll keep playing on even if this is my Ibrox swansong

The highest scoring defender in British history with 143 goals, Tavernier has lifted every domestic trophy during his time with the club, and was their star performer in the run to the Europa League final in 2022. However, the 34-year-old could see the curtain brought down on his Rangers career next month, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season.

Into his 11th season with Rangers, the skipper heads into the final five games of the campaign still unsure if he’ll be offered a chance to continue his story in Glasgow. Yet to truly to process that he could be facing his Ibrox swansong, Tavernier is preferring to keep his focus on beating both Hearts and Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title.

“It doesn’t feel like it’s been long,” said Tavernier. “It feels like it’s gone so quick. Liam Kelly talked about a game recently that was four years ago and I was like: ‘That only felt like a year ago.’ Time flies these days compared to when you were a kid. As you get older, it goes so quick. You don’t realise how quickly it’s gone. I’ve loved every minute. It’s been a rollercoaster and I’ve wanted to win more trophies. But on a personal point, I’ve given absolutely everything and I’ll continue to do that.

“I’ll keep playing, 100 percent. I’m not slowing down, I’m still putting in numbers. I wish I had more assists this season but I’ll speak to the lads about that - because I’ve been putting them on a plate for people. But my body feels great. Easily, I think I’ve got another three or four years. I’ve always been robust in my playing career, I’ve never had muscular injuries. So I just have to keep looking after myself.

“In the years I’ve been in contract I’ve never thought about the next season or what might happen in the summer. My life is busy with my wife, the kids and my football. I’m not someone who thinks too long-term. I have full belief in myself and my ability - and it’s something that will get taken care of. I play for my family, they’re such a big part of my life. So it will be a conversation I have with my wife and kids.”

While few have achieved as much as him in the Rangers dressing room, even fewer have been forced to front up when things have gone awry during a turbulent last decade for the club. With just one point separating them from the top of the table as they approach the final stretch, Tavernier detailed where it would rank alongside his other successes if he could claim the second Scottish Premiership title of his career.

“It would add to it,” said Tavernier. “Everyone has their own special moments but nothing really tips one or the other. People ask me about what my favourite goal is but I’ve got tonnes - there’s not one that’s my favourite. You have to enjoy everything in life equally. I’ve enjoyed every day coming in to Rangers and I’ll keep doing that. I’m not thinking too far ahead. I’m just focusing on Motherwell and what I have to do this weekend.”

James Tavernier was speaking on behalf of William Hill, the SPFL’s title partner. Check out the weekly preview show here.