Rangers captain James Tavernier has sent shockwaves through Scottish football after delivering a fiery post-match interview in which he openly called out Martin O’Neill, leaving fans stunned by the unexpected remarks.
Speaking after Rangers F.C. wrapped up their latest fixture, Tavernier was asked about recent comments circulating in the media involving the Celtic F.C. head coach. The Rangers skipper did not hide his frustration as he addressed the situation.
Visibly irritated, the defender suggested that certain remarks attributed to O’Neill were unnecessary and disrespectful, particularly given the long-standing rivalry between the two Glasgow giants.
“I’ve seen some of the things that have been said recently, and honestly it’s disappointing,” Tavernier told reporters. “You expect a certain level of respect in football, especially from someone in that position.”
Although Rangers and Celtic had not faced each other recently, Tavernier made it clear that the comments had not gone unnoticed inside the Rangers dressing room.
“We focus on our own games and what we need to do on the pitch,” he continued. “But when people start talking about the club or making claims, it’s impossible not to hear about it.”
The Rangers captain stopped short of detailing exactly what had been said, but his blunt response quickly ignited debate among supporters online. Many fans were left bewildered by the sudden public criticism, particularly since the two clubs had been playing separate fixtures in recent weeks.
Despite that, Tavernier hinted that comments made in the media can still influence the atmosphere surrounding Scottish football’s biggest rivalry.
“Everyone knows how big Rangers and Celtic are. Words carry weight when you’re speaking about clubs like this,” he added. “Sometimes it’s better to just focus on your own team.”
The interview immediately began circulating across social media, with supporters from both sides dissecting every word from the Rangers captain.
While some Rangers fans praised Tavernier for defending the club, others were surprised to see the captain address the Celtic boss so directly in public.
As of now, there has been no official response from O’Neill or Celtic representatives regarding the remarks.
However, Tavernier’s comments have once again highlighted just how intense the rivalry between Rangers and Celtic remains — even when the two sides are not facing each other on the pitch. ⚽🔥
And if the reactions from supporters are anything to go by, this latest verbal exchange may only add even more spice the next time the two Glasgow rivals meet.