Let's embark on the tale of James Tavernier, ticking away his existence since 31st October 1991 (a tender age of 33 now). Born in England, he somehow found his way into defence, primarily attempting to play as a right back for Rangers. Standing at a modest 1.75m (5ft 8in), and weighing in at a stonking 81kg (12st 10lb), he parades around in the number 2 jersey, no doubt feeling rather proud of himself.
The tale of Tavernier's career begins in July 2008 when he has the gall to join Newcastle United as a trainee, a team daring to partake in England's Premier League. His time there was, let's say, eventful, with the highlight being 2 first team appearances in league matches during the 2012 - 2013 season. A testament to hard work and perseverance, no doubt.
Shaking things up, as all good heroes of our time do, Tavernier gallivanted off to Gateshead on loan from Newcastle United in January 2011. What an adventure that must have been for him, starring in 13 first team appearances during his debut season.
The almighty Tavernier didn't just stop there. Oh no, like a bad penny, he kept turning up. This time, trundling off to Carlisle United, MK Dons, Shrewsbury Town, Rotherham United, and even Wigan Athletic - no place in the country's lower leagues was safe from his constant transplanting. With a range of appearances logged across these clubs, not least 27 at Rotherham United where he deigned to score his first 5 goals, it was clear that he was spreading his talent widely.
Always open to new adventures, Tavernier decided to take a jaunt overseas in July 2015, transferring from Wigan Athletic to a wee club called Rangers in Scotland, in exchange for a humble fee of around £200k. A real big spender move, I'm sure you'll agree.
Since pulling on the royal blue shirt, this defender has been nothing but regular on the team sheet, with more than 300 appearances, more than 80 goals and an assortment of starts in the Scottish Cup, League Cup and European competitions (Europa League and Champions League Qualifiers, to be precise). Must be pretty pleased with himself, one would imagine. But as always with Tavernier, we can only wait to see where he'll weave his magic next.
