James Tavernier has admitted he owes a "great debt" to Rangers for the opportunity to play for and captain the Ibrox side as he responded to transfer exit speculation.

The right-back, 32, was heavily linked with a switch away from Rangers in the summer with Turkiye and Saudi Arabia touted as possible destinations.

However, Tavernier remained at Rangers and has brushed aside rumours over his future in Glasgow as he insisted "I've still got a lot to achieve".

Speaking to Sky Sports about the transfer speculation, Tavernier said:Β "There was always going to be reports and links. I am in contract until the end of next season.

"Rangers have always given me that platform to play my football and the foundations to do something that a lot of people would love to do, so I've always got a great debt to pay, but it is football.

"If teams come in, they come in, but I am fully focused on the job in hand and I know I've still got a lot to achieve."


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The defiant Rangers skipper then accepted his share of fierce criticism in the aftermath of defeat to Celtic earlier this month.

However, he did say abuse "can go too far" at points as he ruled out pouring over the angry scenes following the derby loss.

"It is part of the parcel with football.Β You see it up and down the country," he said.

"As fans they want to display their frustration, you can understand the frustration that people have and obviously, us as players are frustrated as well.

"We never go out there wanting to lose a game, or even draw a game - especially playing for Rangers we always want to win. We will always give our 100 per cent effort to that cause.

"On certain days it can go too far but it is something in the past, it is not something I dwell on. I always keep looking forward and obviously, it motivates me more to do better."