JAMES TAVERNIER hasn't always had it easy at Ibrox with many detractors questioning his position at Rangers.
But Kris Boyd insists he must go down as one of the best pieces of transfer business done by Rangers.
Right-back Tavernier signed for Rangers in 2015 for a modest fee of £200,000 from Wigan.
After three seasons at the club he was named club captain by Steven Gerrard - something Boyd pinpoints as a major turning point.
Hailing the Ibrox skipper, Boyd wrote in his Scottish Sun column: "Signed seven years ago this week for just £300,000, the deal to bring Tavernier to Ibrox must go down as one of the greatest pieces of business in the club's history.
"Of course, there were times during his rollercoaster spell at Gers that a Tav testimonial seemed unimaginable.
"But it's testament to his character, as well as his talents as a footballer, that it's now within reach."
Tavernier has agreed a new contract at Rangers with the full-back set to remain in Glasgow until 2026 taking him to a testimonial.
For Boyd, keeping Tavernier and Connor Goldson on extended deals represents smart business from Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
And he reckons Tavernier will continue to impress for Rangers both on the pitch and with his professional attitude off the park.
He added: "Since signing in 2015, Tav has been a key figure in Rangers' recent journey.
"People will rightly point to title No 55 and the part he played in that.
"They will also look at his role in helping Gers to reach last season's Europa League final.
"But he's delivered a helluva lot more than that.
"He's become a proud ambassador for the club. As captain, he sets the example for others to follow. His numbers, in terms of goals and assists, speak for themselves.
"But it's the way he has carried himself that has been so impressive.
"Tavernier has been heavily criticised at times, yet he's taken it all in his stride. He speaks very well and is no trouble away from the field. In many ways, he's a model pro."
