CALLUM DAVIDSON has hailed James Tavernier as “phenomenal” following his stunning start to the season. 

The Rangers skipper has scored 17 goals and assisted on 14 occasions this campaign, which has helped the Light Blues to a 16-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership. 

St Johnstone boss Davidson knows the full-back role inside out from his time as a player, but even he has been amazed by the statistics that Tavernier is producing. 

On the threat of Rangers Davidson told Herald and Times Sport: “They’ve got quality on both sides. Barisic has got an unbelievable left foot and puts superb crosses into the box. 

“With Tavernier, you just need to look at his record. It’s been phenomenal – assists and goals. His numbers are great. When I was playing full-back I had to defend! 

“I think it’s brilliant that you see full-backs contribute in attack like we see in the game today. 

“Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool are two of the best and Tavernier’s delivery into the box is up there. It’s phenomenal. 

“They’re two big threats but there are plenty of others – the likes of Kent, Morelos and a few others. 

“They’re very well organised and all know what they’ve got to do. It’s the same when the substitutes come on.” 

He continued: “Rangers are a top team and we just need to make sure we stick to our game plan. 

“We played quite well at Ibrox but conceded at the wrong times – a free-kick and then a goal in the 44th minute. 

“We had actually limited Rangers to only a few chances. We need to do that again and press them in good areas. We can’t just sit in and defend for a whole game.”