James Tavernier incredible Rangers goal return provides extra motivation as sixth spot on prestigious list in sight

Graham Alexander was thrilled to discover his elite company at sixth on the all-time list of the world’s top-scoring defenders.

But one glance behind him and he figured it won’t be long before James Tavernier pinches his place. Tavernier is on an astonishing 126 career goals - four behind Alexander, who played more than 1000 senior games. The Rangers phenomenon is 32 and Alexander reckons he’ll have global legends knocked down the rankings long before he retires.

Ronald Koeman is on an unassailable 253 goals. Next are Daniel Passarella (175), Fernando Hierro (163), Laurent Blanc (153) and Sergio Ramos (135). Ex-Motherwell boss Alexander said: “Alan Burrows sent me the list, which was on social media. I looked at the World Cup winners and legends of the game there - then there’s me! Ones behind me had retired. So I knew I’d finished above them - other than Tavernier! I know he’s catching me, without a doubt. To be competing with those players on scoring terms will be a great sense of pride to James.

“If he’s aware of it, I presume he’ll be thinking, I can chase down some of them. Listen, you want to win with your team. There are major honours at stake for Rangers.

“But personal things like that might be a small motivational tool to use. While I played, I was never made aware of my record in comparison to any other defender.

“But when you take set pieces and penalties for so long, there’s a personal pride. You want to have a good record; want your team to rely on YOU all the time.”

Tav is in his ninth Rangers season and seventh manager since Mark Warburton spent £200,000. He’s been through thick and thin with Pedro Caixinha, Graeme Murty, Steven Gerrard, Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Michael Beale.

Philippe Clement