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Kris Boyd has issued a passionate call for Rangers to hold onto captain James Tavernier, as well as midfield duo Nicolas Raskin and Mohamed Diomande, as the club embarks on a new era under incoming manager Russell Martin. The former striker believes the trio could be central to a successful Ibrox rebuild—provided they are given the right support.
Tavernier, now entering the final year of his contract, endured a turbulent campaign under former boss Philippe Clement, who at times left him out of the starting XI. Despite the criticism surrounding his recent form, *Record Sport* reported last week that the 33-year-old is set to continue as club captain under Martin’s leadership, as he prepares for what will be his 11th season with the Glasgow giants.
Boyd remains confident that Tavernier, who played a pivotal role during Rangers’ 2020/21 title-winning season, can still be a vital figure—especially if the club’s new owners, 49ers Enterprises, invest significantly in the playing squad. “James Tavernier will be begging for better players around him,” Boyd said. “When Gerrard brought quality in, we saw just how exceptional he could be—his goals and assists were off the charts.”
The club has already been linked with several high-profile targets, including Leicester City centre-back Conor Coady and Maccabi Tel Aviv striker Dor Turgeman, as Martin looks to strengthen key areas across the pitch.
Crucially, Boyd warned that Rangers must also resist the temptation to sell their emerging midfield talents. Both Raskin and Diomande have attracted interest, with Everton reportedly monitoring Diomande under new boss David Moyes. Boyd, however, believes the pair still have much to offer at Ibrox—especially in the right environment.
“Players don’t suddenly become bad overnight,” Boyd explained. “Sometimes it’s the manager’s style, a lack of confidence, or injuries. But if you build the right squad and raise the level of competition, players like Raskin and Diomande can thrive. Some of the guys already at Rangers will go on to have big careers at the club.”
He added that consistent performances, not just occasional standout games, are what’s required to meet the expectations at Rangers. “You can get by in one-off matches, but to succeed here, you need to deliver every week. Bringing in better players not only lifts the team, but also pushes the current squad to improve or step aside.”
Boyd made the remarks while promoting McDonald’s Fun Football—free summer sessions available to children aged 5–11 across the UK. But his message for Rangers was clear: keep the core, invest smartly, and give Russell Martin the tools to lead a true revival at Ibrox.
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