New Rangers interim head coach Barry Ferguson has full confidence in James Tavernier to remain club captain for the rest of the season.
On Monday the former Ibrox skipper was named as Philippe Clement’s replacement until the end of the current campaign.
The Belgian was relieved of his duties following a 2-0 defeat to St Mirren on Saturday with Ferguson handed the reins alongside a coaching staff of Allan McGregor, Billy Dodds, Neil McCann and Issame Charai.
They will get their first taste of action against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Wednesday.
Taking in his first press conference ahead of that game, Ferguson said: “We want to bring energy and a bit of desire, stuff like that, I’ve explained that to the players that’s what I feel has been missing when I’ve been watching them over the last couple of weeks certainly in the Queen’s Park and St Mirren games.
“I know the way football operates nowadays, some players will need an arm around them and some maybe need a wee clip round about the ear, so I’ll suss out who needs that.”
There have been some question marks regarding Tavernier’s leadership on the park from the support this season and with Ferguson captaining the club with distinction during a trophy-laden playing career, he was asked if that would be something he would look to change during his three-month spell in the dugout.
But he revealed that he has “no doubts” regarding the right-back’s commitment.
He said: “James (Tavernier) will remain the captain. I don’t think there is any need to change that. I had a good chat with James last night. I looked him in the eyes and I have no doubt that he will give me 100% to lead this club until the end of the season.”
Some have also questioned the appointment of Ferguson as interim head coach considering his management career so far has consisted of lower league teams such as Kelty Hearts and Clyde.
However, he said he is ready to be judged for his performances and results over the next three months rather than anything that has gone before.
He said: “Judge me at the end of the three months, I have no problem with that, everyone is entitled to their opinion. One thing you will get from me and my staff coming here, we are not taking this lightly, we are taking it seriously and that will start tomorrow night.
“I’d rather be judged come the end of the season but I obviously know I will be judged game to game.”
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