Ex-Celtic striker Chris Sutton has paid tribute to Rangers captain James Tavernier after he became the UK’s highest-scoring defender.

The BBC pundit has described the fullback as a “serial loser” in the past but he has rowed back on his previous comments and praised him for his achievements during his time in Scottish football:

“I’ve got a lot of admiration for James Tavernier, I think this is his ninth season at Rangers. The truth is, he’s played under some wretched managers and been through tough times. I think he’s mentally strong.”

“If you look at the number and the quality of goals he scores – free kicks, a wonderful volley at the weekend – he’s scored big goals and taken his team to a Europa Cup final. He eventually won a Scottish Premiership.”

“Going forward, he could easily play in the English Premier League. The service he has given Rangers, the quality he has given and the way he’s led them this season, there’s a lot to be admired.”

His commitment to Rangers is undisputed

As Sutton points out, the Gers captain could have been tempted by a move to the Premier League. He clearly has the ability to play at the top level in England.

However, Tavernier has stayed fiercely loyal to the Light Blues and that is a tremendous credit to him, especially considering all the ups and downs the club have had over the last decade.

Tavernier’s goalscoring record is now unmatched

The 33-year-old’s goal against Hibernian at the weekend takes his total to 131 in senior football, which puts him above former Preston North End and Burnley defender Graham Alexander.

It should also be pointed out that Tavernier is just as capable of providing assists, having created 140 goals in his senior career. It is quite staggering how influential he has been in the final third of the pitch despite ostensibly being a right-back.