James Tavernier has insisted Connor Goldson will be missed at Rangers as he shared an emotional farewell message with his former team-mate.
The Ibrox captain hailed "brother, player, role model and leader" Goldson after the centre-back left Rangers to join Aris Limassol.
Tavernier, who shared the dressing room with Goldson for six years, cited his former team-mate's "leadership and professionalism" as he reflected on "so many special memories together".
The emotional post on Instagram was accompanied by images of the pair after winning the Scottish Premiership title in 2020/21.
Tavernier wrote: "Brother, Player, Role model and a leader.
"It’s been an absolute pleasure sharing the pitch and the dressing room with you for the past 6 years. "Your leadership and professionalism everyday was an example to us all. We shared so many special memories together that’ll last forever 🙌🏽 "You gave it everything and you’re going to be missed! "I wish you nothing but the best in the future for you and your family brother 💙"
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A Rangers statement on Goldson's departure read: "Rangers Football Club can today confirm Connor Goldson has departed the club to join Cypriot side Aris Limassol for an undisclosed fee.
"Goldson’s association with the Light Blues has spanned six years since he made the move north of the border from Brighton and Hove Albion, making over 300 appearances and completing the collection of domestic honours on offer as well as playing in a Europa League Final.
"Goldson’s Rangers journey began under Steven Gerrard in 2018, becoming one of the Englishman’s first signings in charge and immediately establishing himself as a permanent fixture in the side.
"Such was the defender’s leadership qualities that he sported the captain’s armband just two league games into his Gers career in the absence of James Tavernier, scoring in a 2-0 win over St. Mirren at Ibrox.
"Goldson quickly became the man for the big occasion, popping up with a crucial goal to help Rangers on their way to UEFA Europa League group stage qualification in his first season before, 12 months later, producing a stoppage time header to down Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on the opening day of the 2019/20 campaign.
"As Covid-19 lockdown measures forced the closure of stadia in Scotland, Goldson’s booming voice became the backdrop to the side’s quest to end the club’s ten-year wait for a league title in what proved to be an unforgettable invincible campaign.
"Indeed, his double in a 2-0 victory at Parkhead in October set Rangers on their way, with Goldson playing every minute across a 56-game campaign in all competitions in 2020/21.
"The Englishman’s durability continued to astound supporters and managers alike as he featured over 60 times the following season as the Light Blues embarked on a memorable run to the UEFA Europa League final and, three days later, lifted the Scottish Cup in extra time at the national stadium.
"Success in the League Cup followed last December for Goldson in what would prove to be his final campaign at the club, and everyone at Rangers wishes him the very best of luck in his future endeavours."
