James Tavernier finally breaks silence on Rangers fan backlash as captain faces awkward Celtic question

Skipper James Tavernier has addressed the furious reaction from Rangers fans to defeat to Celtic for the first time.

Since the humbling 3-0 derby defeat, Rangers have seen off Dundee United in the Premiership and Dundee to reach the Premier Sports Cup semi-final - and capped off their recent momentum with an impressive performance against Malmo in the opening game of their Europa League campaign. But, defeat to Brendan Rodgers' side has left the Light Blues with an uphill battle in the title race - as they trail Celtic five points.

There's been plenty of rage from fans following the clash in Glasgow's east end - much of which has been directed at the man with the armband Tavernier. And speaking to TNT Sports following the 2-0 win in Sweden, the skipper looked to draw a line under the flashpoints seen outside of Ibrox.

Asked if he had felt "bruised" by the reaction from fans after Celtic's victory and "some of the things he had to endure" the captain initially appeared to surprised by the question in the wake of a European victory. Tavernier then responded: "It's part and parcel.

"I am at the front, as captain. I've got to take the criticism and obviously when we are doing well we take the good things out of it as well.

"No. I'm a strong character and I can always continue no matter what comes my way. The fans obviously showed great support. As a team, we just have to move in the right direction and keep pushing forward."

Tune in to Hotline Live every Sunday to Thursday and have your say on the biggest issues in Scottish football.