James Tavernier has told Tuesday’s press conference – as per the Rangers Twitter page – that he will be helping new signing Mateusz Zukowski behind the scenes at Ibrox. But he also says Zukowski is there as competition.
The 20-year-old right-back has joined Rangers on a permanent, three-and-a-half-year deal from Polish side Gdansk. Glasgow World report that a fee to sign the Poland Under-21 star is in the region of £500,000.
Of course, Rangers chose to bring in another right-back after the club decided to cash in on Nathan Patterson. Everton took the Scotland star south of the border, in a club-record fee received by the Gers.
Obviously, the signing of Zukowski was somewhat overshadowed by the arrival of Aaron Ramsey on deadline day. But Tavernier spoke of how he is ready to advise the Pole behind the scenes at Rangers, going forward.
“As part of my responsibilities as a captain I like to help the squad, with Zukowski arriving I’ll give him all the advice I can but he is also there to help push me on further,” Tavernier said in Tuesday’s press conference.
Tavernier on Zukowski: Rangers talent has lots to learn at right-back
For Rangers to get a player that has four caps for Poland’s Under-21 side and more than 50 games at senior level under his belt, for just £500,000, is certainly good business. But he lacks the attacking edge of Tavernier.
In his 50 games for Gdansk, Zukowski managed two goals and one assist. While his defensive ability is certainly not under scrutiny – his impact going forward will need work. There are little better to help, than Tavernier.
Whether Rangers fans will get to see Zukowski regularly is unlikely, with captain Tavernier one of the first names on the team sheet. But the odd substitute appearance, and cup games, will see Zukowski given a chance.
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