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One of the topics James Tavernier’s future as Rangers captain was one of the questions Philippe Clement had to answer during his first questioning by the Scottish media.

The question was dismissed with what has come to be known as the Ibrox gaffer’s signature Belgian bluntness. We were unaware at the time that the recently hired manager had already seated his skipper for a personal grilling. All Clement needed to know from the responses he received was that he had really met a man he could collaborate with. The tremendous progress the Rangers have made in the nine weeks since have been largely down to the trust that was established on that day, with the right-back serving as an echo on the field for the guidance Clement has given from the dugout.

And on Sunday, Tavernier once again gave the correct response. His victorious goal in the Viaplay Cup Final versus Aberdeen was the ideal response to those who argue that the Englishman should lose his armband whenever everything goes wrong. The 31-year-old shut down his critics with the same forceful attitude that his manager used to suppress inquiries over the captaincy with his newfound joyous swing.

“I don’t know why he’s not appreciated by people,” Clement remarked when questioned about Tavernier yesterday. But I was grateful to him from the first day on.When Rangers manager Philippe Clement returns to Ibrox with the League Cup trophy, he is greeted with warmth.

“What I observed, his demeanor, and his actions both on and off the field. That is the most crucial factor. The first man I spoke with upon entering this building was him. It was crucial for me to sense what was happening and to learn those things quickly so that I could act quickly to make changes.

“After a pretty candid conversation, James and a few other men have become my right hand both on the field and in this building. Therefore, having players who are aware of the narrative on the field is crucial. Not just the tactical narrative, but also the rationale behind your choices and modifications.

They now realize that I will rotate eight players to keep each player performing at their peak. You have to clarify every single item at the outset. These people must therefore undoubtedly comprehend and set a good example.

“Connor Goldson also missed a game a few weeks earlier. However, he was prepared to help the squad and his behavior did not change whether he started or stopped. And those factors are crucial for a team of players.

Tav is accused of not being in the same chest-beating mold as past Ibrox captains Terry Butcher and Richard Gough. That is accurate, yet in 1.9 games on average, neither of those great leaders scored a goal or assisted on one. Tavernier leads by attacking totals with 431 games played, 115 goals and 112 assists; Clement hopes he is equally proud of his defensive accomplishments.

“He has incredible stats,” the Ibrox boss remarked. But the fact that he plays for more than just stats is what matters to me. His primary role is defense, so he must ensure that our defense is strong. At that point, the attacking phase can begin. But my favorite example of how I prefer to play with offensive full-backs is in the cup final, when our left-back, Borna Barisic, crosses the goal line and the other full-back scores.

There are plenty of those circumstances, but we also have to defend. For this reason, having clean sheets is also quite vital. It’s important to maintain equilibrium. Indeed, it is remarkable that he manages to accomplish this every year despite having various teammates, management, and situations.

Since joining from Stoke City last summer, Dujon Sterling has been unable to secure his ideal position at right back due to Tavernier’s consistency. However, a midfield injury crisis has provided the young Londoner with an opportunity, and he has seized it, shining as a halftime substitute in the team’s victory over Real Betis last week and going on to win Man of the Match at Hampden.

If some have been taken aback by his performances, Clement is not one of them. “Maybe not the best word to use, as I expected it based on what I saw in training,” he stated. I’ve already informed the team that he will play a major role in my plans.

Can he stay in midfield for the long run? To be honest, it can be wherever on the field. I questioned him about his ability to play goalie. But we have sufficient quality goalkeepers! However, he is also a capable winger. I’m certain. It will be crucial for Dujon to gain experience and grow.

When the Gers play the first of their two remaining games against the Hoops at home against St Johnstone tonight, they want to cut Celtic’s lead down to two points. Sterling should have another chance to play. “I always want a team that plays intense football, that presses, and with players who are always available and making a lot of runs without the ball,” Clement continued, adding that others will get their time. That means you have to be completely fit. We will require the entire squad, and I will deploy the individuals who demonstrate their readiness.