FAN FEAR
Rangers fans react to Tavernier and Cantwell being left out of squad to face Man Utd as Clement explains why
The manager has given an important update
JAMES TAVERNIER has been left OUT of the Rangers squad for their pre season friendly against Manchester United.
The Rangers captain has played 460 times for the Light Blues across nine seasons and is rarely ever not in match day squads but for injuries.
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And amid interest from Trabzonspor for the Englishman, his exclusion was explained by his manager.
The Turkish side had their first bid rejected for the full back during the week but will return with a second offer.
He has also reportedly already agreed personal terms with the side that have already scooped up his two ex team mates in Borna Barisic and John Lundstram.
But on his admission from the squad to face United, Clement spoke of an injury to the captain.
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He said: “James Tavernier is getting better, he is close to training with the team."
But fans have flooded social media with thoughts of their own on the captain being left out of the squad.
One fan said: "This Tav(ernier) thing is getting a bit too real for my liking."
Another added: "Tav and Cantwell both definitely gone."
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While a third fan added: "Tavernier out once more. Sterling in his natural right back birth. Jefte at left back. Nice to see Cortez starting."
Tavernier is the highest goal scoring full back in the U.K but has received stick from a large section of the Rangers support for his lack of silverware across his captaincy at the club.
And Dujon Sterling is the man who will replace the captain in the starting lineup against United.
The former Stoke City player has been used as a utility player since his arrival last summer, playing in defensive midfield and even as a winger with first choice Tavernier keeping his spot in defence.
But his possible exit could pave the way for Sterling to take up his most natural position as a regular.
Todd Cantwell has also been left out of the squad in Edinburgh, with SunSport previously revealing that the club could listen to offers for the midfielder.
But Clement has signalled this is due to a fitness reason, saying: "Todd is training with the team but is not ready to play with the first team so he will play with the second team on Saturday."
New signings Jefte and Connor Barron are also given the nod at Murrayfield, with Butland in goals ahead of Liam Kelly who impressed last week against Ajax.
For Man United, new signing Leny Yoro is given a start along with returning loanee Jadon Sancho who could be given a fresh chance under Ten Hag.
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The game is the first of three friendlies for Philippe Clement's side before they kick off their Premiership season against Hearts.
While United warm up for their Manchester derby clash in the Community Shield at the beginning of next month.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page