James Tavernier gunning for Rangers legend Ally McCoist but it’s nothing to do with legend’s all-time XI snub

James Tavernier is gunning for Ally McCoist but it’s nothing to do with the Ibrox hero leaving him out of his Legends XI.

The Rangers skipper is just one goal away from equalling the master poacher's European 21-goal haul and he’d love to smash in to the record books against Benfica on Thursday night. McCoist was recently asked to name his all-time Gers side and there was no room for Tavernier in his defence. His back three of John Greig, Terry Butcher and Richard Gough didn’t sound bad mind you – and the former hitman left himself out of the team, along with the likes of fellow legend Sandy Jardine.

There’s no chance Tavernier was going to take offence at going up against such illustrious company. But he’d love to create a bit of history of his own at Ibrox. The Rangers skipper has already cemented his place in club folklore with his goal scoring exploits and part in leading Gers back to the domestic podium. Becoming the second highest European goal scorer – behind Alfredo Morelos – would be the next record on his hit list. And maybe even a step closer to McCoist’s team.

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Tavernier said: “There is certainly a lot of legends at the club and Ally has witnessed a lot of them. It would be sweet (to reach the target). I will just keep kicking on and going after the stats. But as long as we go through I will be happy.

“I think I need to get a goal. I haven’t scored a European goal this season since we started the group stages so I am definitely due one. I will obviously try to do my defensive duties and help the team keep a clean sheet, but if I can help the lads up top then I will definitely try to do that.”

Tavernier