Tavernier hurt at losing farewell Ibrox appearance

James Tavernier took the acclaim of supporters before Wednesday's match [SNS]

Departing Rangers captain James Tavernier says he "felt deeply hurt and let down" and that "the situation could and should have been handled much better" after missing out on a farewell appearance at Ibrox.

The right-back, 34, did not feature in the squad for Wednesday's 2-1 defeat by Hibernian but he received a warm ovation from supporters when he took to the pitch pre-match to be presented with a commemorative shield marking his 11 years' service by Rangers great John Greig.

Head coach Danny Rohl said Tavernier "had a medical issue" and was unsure whether the defender would feature in Saturday's final game of the season at Falkirk, commenting: "There was no conflict. I made my decision he would not start today because he was not 100%. He stayed away from the team today."

And, writing on Instagram on Thursday, Tavernier explained the background of his ankle issue, which arose following last Monday's defeat by Hearts. He started but did not finish Sunday's loss at Celtic Park.

"The last 24 hours have been the most difficult and emotional of my career for both myself and my family," said the Englishman.

"Following discussions with the medical staff, we agreed that an injection was the only option, which was initially scheduled for Thursday.

"After Sunday's game, and with emotions running high, I made the decision to bring the injection forward to Tuesday. That decision would have ruled me out of both Wednesday and Saturday's matches.

"After speaking throughout Monday with my family and the medical department, I came to the decision to delay the injection until Thursday so I could play one final game at Ibrox on Wednesday night.

"I personally informed the manager of this decision and explained how important it was to me and my family that I had the opportunity to say goodbye properly to the Ibrox faithful."

Tavernier went on to explain that, following correspondence with Rohl, he was informed he would be a substitute.

"In that moment, my emotions understandably took over," Tavernier said.

"Many people may feel I could have handled the situation better, and I accept that, but after dedicating over a decade of my life to this club, with my family beside me throughout it all, I felt deeply hurt and let down.

"What disappointed me most was the version of events that was later presented publicly, as it did not reflect the conversations that had taken place privately beforehand.

"I firmly believe the situation could and should have been handled much better from all sides. A lack of communication allowed matters to escalate unnecessarily in the build up to such an emotional occasion for myself and my family."

Tavernier announced late last month that he would be leaving this summer at the end of his contract. He has made 565 Rangers appearances, scoring 144 goals for the club. He is British football's highest scoring defender with 152.

And he said near the end of his statement: "I want to make clear that no individual is ever bigger than this great football club.

"Rangers must always come first. I hope the fans continue to stand united behind the team and the club moving forward. Thank you for everything."

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