Why Southampton should plot a summer swoop for James Tavernier
Back in May 2019, Daily Mail had claimed that Southampton were one of the Premier League clubs interested in signing Rangers right-back James Tavernier. However, a deal didn’t go through last summer.
James Tavernier, 28, is one of the best right-backs in the Scottish Premiership, and he was one of the best players for Rangers last season. He enjoyed a remarkable first season under Steven Gerrard, hitting 17 goals and 20 assists from the right-back position.
His productivity has decreased a bit this campaign, yet the right-back has racked up three goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. With Tavernier among one of the impressive performers for Gerrard’s side, Southampton must revive their interest in him when the transfer window opens this summer.
A tally of just 35 goals scored and 52 conceded in 29 games clearly reveals that the Saints have left much to be desired at both ends of the pitch. Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl will surely need to find a way to plug some of the gaping holes during the summer transfer window to help his team challenge for a top-half finish next term.
Bringing in defensive reinforcements at the end of the season should be a top priority for Southampton, who have virtually shipped goals for fun in the Premier League so far. While a new centre-back to bolster the area of the pitch is a no-brainer, right-back is another department where Southampton will undoubtedly need to make some changes moving forward.
The Saints let Cedric Soares join Arsenal on loan in January and although he has been injured since, Hasenhuttl’s side have still missed having him in the squad. The Austrian tactician has had to rely on James Ward-Prowse filling in on occasion, despite signing Kyle Walker-Peters on loan from Tottenham.
Youngster Yan Valery hasn’t really managed to do enough to warrant a regular starting role under Hasenhuttl and the door is pretty much open for a new right-back to come in and cement his place in the team. To that end, the sea coast side going back in the market for James Tavernier makes a lot of sense.
Tavernier has been a real star for the Gers over the last couple of seasons. He is an attacking right-back and his 29 goals and 44 assists in three seasons combined (including the current one) are a testament to his qualities going forward. In Hasenhuttl’s tried and tested 4-2-2-2 system, the Englishman would be a smart fit at right-back.
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The 28-year-old would certainly strengthen the Saints’ defensive unit, whilst bringing depth to Hasenhuttl’s squad. Tavernier has been a consistent performer for Rangers under Gerrard and is at the right age to test himself in the Premier League after failing to break through Newcastle’s academy.
Verdict
Tavernier is an experienced player with the attributes to make an instant impact at St. Mary’s Stadium. Hence, Southampton should go for the Rangers star this summer.
