STEVEN GERRARD has backed James Tavernier to lead by example after handing him the Rangers armband this term.

The right-back skippered the Gers during the closing months of last season and was captain for the 6-0 win over Bury at Ibrox on Friday night.

Gerrard has spent pre-season assessing his candidates for the position and Tavernier has now been given the role on a full-time basis for the new campaign.

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Gerrard said: “I’m delighted with him. Not just the performances, but the character, the man and the leader. 

“He has been through some highs and lows here of late, but he is one who has been very consistent.

“I know the fans like him very much, but we have been working with him for 17 days and he has been fantastic in every single department.”