# James Tavernier Furiously Leaks WhatsApp Message with Russell Martin, Dividing Rangers Fans
In a bombshell revelation that’s sent shockwaves through Ibrox, Rangers captain James Tavernier has reportedly leaked a private WhatsApp conversation with head coach Russell Martin, exposing deep tensions within the club. The incident, which surfaced on social media late last week, has ignited a fierce divide among the Gers faithful, with fans split between unwavering support for their long-serving skipper and calls for unity behind the beleaguered manager.
The leaked exchange, circulating widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), allegedly shows Martin confronting Tavernier over his recent form and leadership following a string of disappointing results. Sources close to the club claim the message from Martin reads: “James, we need to drop egos and fight for each other – no more jogging around like last game.” Tavernier’s furious reply? “You’ve lost the dressing room, Russ. Players aren’t buying it.” Accompanied by screenshots, the chat has been shared thousands of times, with one viral post garnering over 200,000 views.
This comes amid a turbulent start to the season for Rangers under Martin, who took over in June. After a 1-1 draw at Motherwell, Martin publicly criticized the squad’s “mentality problem,” dropping Tavernier and midfielder Nicolas Raskin for a Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen – a move that leaked online hours before kickoff. Despite a 3-0 win, the gesture backfired, fueling rumors of a dressing-room revolt. Tavernier, Rangers’ record goalscoring defender with 131 strikes in 10 years, has faced benchings sporadically, but fans see him as a symbol of loyalty.
The leak has polarized supporters. Traditionalists rally behind Tavernier, viewing him as the club’s heartbeat. “Tav’s been our captain through thick and thin – Martin’s the problem,” one fan posted on X, echoing sentiments in fan forums where calls for Martin’s sacking grow louder after recent draws and a humiliating Champions League exit to Club Brugge. A poll on a Rangers supporters’ group showed 70% backing Tavernier over the manager.
Conversely, a vocal minority accuses Tavernier of undermining the team. “Leaking chats? That’s betrayal. Time for Tav to go,” argued another, pointing to his age (33) and perceived dip in performance. Pundits like Barry Ferguson have warned of a “mole” in the camp, but this personal leak escalates the crisis.
Club insiders say Tavernier initiated post-match crisis talks after the Brugge loss, demanding accountability. Martin, meanwhile, remains defiant, insisting in a press conference: “Tough conversations happen – we’re building something.” the rift threatens to derail Rangers’ season. For now, Ibrox is a house divided, and the fallout could define Martin’s tenure.
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