Tavernier: We have to take advantage of Ibrox atmosphere in Euro clash

James Tavernier says Rangers will look to use the Ibrox atmosphere to their advantage when they take on Panathinaikos to get a good first leg result and avoid having to chase the game in the intense Greek heat next week.

The captain, who is preparing for his tenth season at the club, is aiming for a win to take to Athens for the second leg of the Champions League qualifier.

Rangers are hoping to return to the top competition for the first time since the 2022/23 campaign, and Tavernier knows they will likely need a victory in Glasgow to give them the best chance of progressing further.

They have been particularly strong at Ibrox in the Europa League in recent seasons, with the passionate home support helping them over the line on many occasions.

And as new head coach Russell Martin is set for his first competitive game in the Rangers dugout, the skipper wants nothing less than a strong start.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Tavernier said: “We have to take advantage of Ibrox, with our fans and aim to take a good result over to the second-leg.

“And then obviously focus on the game over there when that comes.

“We want to show everyone what we are capable of and what we are working to do.

“Our objective is to get the win at home, and we have to make sure we get the job done. You have to set a tone in every single game, from the first whistle.

“We want a positive result to show where we are at and show everyone what we are capable of, and put ourselves in a good position to get through.

“We know it’s going to be a hot one over there for the second leg, so you obviously want to prioritise getting a good result in the first leg, hopefully with a clean sheet and a few goals, then we can go over there knowing they will have to chase the game.”

Tavernier is excited for what is to come under Martin after being impressed by the early signs of another “fresh start”.

He said: “You will see on Tuesday, and as the season goes on, a different style of play both on and off the ball.

“You have to win games here; that is the demand at this football club. We really want to put in a performance against Panathinaikos.

“I’m really excited with the philosophy of the manager, both on and off the ball; it is going to be intense.

“In football, you see the squad change every season.

“A lot has changed around the club. It is a fresh start for the club, and we are all really excited to get behind it.”