James Tavernier’s Leaked WhatsApp Message: A Testament to Leadership and Dedication
As Rangers Football Club prepares to welcome Russell Martin as their new head coach, a leaked WhatsApp message from club captain James Tavernier to his teammates has surfaced, shedding light on the character and leadership of one of Scotland’s most prolific defenders. The message, brimming with themes of hard work, dedication, and unity, offers a glimpse into Tavernier’s mindset and sets the tone for the new era under Martin’s leadership at Ibrox. This revelation not only highlights Tavernier’s role as a driving force within the squad but also provides insight into what the incoming head coach can expect from his star player.
James Tavernier, the 33-year-old right-back, has been a cornerstone of Rangers since joining from Wigan Athletic in 2015. With over 500 appearances, more than 100 goals, and a place in the Rangers Hall of Fame, Tavernier’s legacy is undeniable. His remarkable statistics—16 goals and 20 assists in the 2018-19 season alone—earned high praise from Russell Martin during their brief time together at Rangers in 2018. Martin, then on loan from Norwich City, described Tavernier as “the best player in Scotland,” lauding his ability to drive the team forward with goals and leadership by example. This leaked message reinforces that reputation, showcasing Tavernier’s commitment to rallying his teammates ahead of Martin’s arrival.
The WhatsApp message, reportedly sent to the Rangers squad, emphasizes the need for relentless effort and unity as the team transitions to new management. Tavernier urged his teammates to “dig deep” and show Martin the same dedication that has defined their campaigns, particularly in European competitions like the Europa League, where Rangers recently secured a top-eight finish. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the high standards set during their successful 2020-21 Scottish Premiership title win, reminding players that their performances now could shape their futures at the club. The message, described as passionate yet composed, reflects Tavernier’s leadership style—not one of “ranting and raving,” as Martin once noted, but of leading through action and accountability.
For Russell Martin, this message is a clear indicator of the kind of player he will inherit as captain. Tavernier’s words underscore his work ethic, evident in his rigorous off-season training in Dubai’s scorching heat and his consistent contributions on the pitch. His ability to balance offensive flair with defensive responsibilities—becoming Britain’s highest-scoring defender in 2024—demonstrates a versatility that Martin, known for his tactical acumen from stints at Southampton and Swansea, will likely harness. Tavernier’s message also signals a squad ready to embrace Martin’s philosophy, which emphasizes disciplined, possession-based football, aligning with the captain’s call for collective focus.
However, the message also comes at a time of scrutiny for Tavernier, who has faced fan criticism for recent inconsistent performances and a missed penalty in a shock Scottish Cup loss to Queen’s Park. Yet, his response to adversity—accepting accountability and rallying his teammates—speaks volumes about his resilience. For Martin, this leaked message is a promising sign of a captain who embodies dedication and is prepared to lead Rangers into a new chapter with unwavering commitment.
Word count: 499
Sources:,,,
Sources:,,,
