Tavernier on Rangers fitness concerns after Clement ‘biggest puzzle’ admission

James Tavernier has addressed Rangers’ fitness concerns after Phillippe Clement labelled the injury problems his “biggest puzzle”.

The Ibrox boss has been confused by the number of injuries throughout the squad since he arrived and has hinted that the fitness levels are not up to the standard he requires as boss. The Belgian even urged his players to get in the habit of using the Auchenhowie cryochamber available in a bid to help their matchday recovery and prevent any further issues.

Four players were ruled out this afternoon of tomorrow’s Hearts clash in the Viaplay Cup semi-final and now captain Tavernier has explained how it has been tough for some of the injured squad this campaign so far to get up to full speed and that’s why there has been rotation from the manager.

“I think he’s highlighted the lads coming back from injury, it’s a bit hard for them if they get chucked back into a game and their levels are not at the level of the lads playing week in week out,” Tav said.

“I think he’s made it clear to everyone in the team and as a squad that he wants everyone at the same fitness levels. When asked so everyone can be there, give 100 percent and be fit for the team. That’s the main thing for the squad he’s brought to the table.

“I think you’ve seen rotation in the squad already. Leon [Balogun] came back into the squad, I think Ross [McCausland] has done really well, a young lad coming into the team. Scotty [Wright] has come in, Jacko’s come in so it’s a team game and we need everybody. The gaffer will have his own tactics for different games and what he wants from different people and we’ve all got to be ready for when asked for.”