Souttar glad of rest after pain of missing Euros

Souttar glad of rest after pain of missing Euros

2. Rangers defender John Souttar is determined to use his Euro 2024 omission as a source of motivation for the new season.

   The 27-year-old was included in the provisional Scotland squad for the tournament in Germany before being cut for the final 26-man selection.

   “Obviously it was disappointing not to be involved at the Euros, but then again it was good for my body to get a break,” said Souttar.

   “I played a lot of football last year and this has been the first time I’ve really had the chance to have that break and let my body recover, so I’m feeling good and looking forward to the start of the season.

   “I wouldn’t call what happened a blessing but, looking back, maybe it will be a good thing getting that rest.”

   Souttar appeared twice as a substitute for Scotland last term, taking his tally of caps to eight.

   “I was part of the training camp so I was close, I was as close as you can be,” he added.

   “But it was a decision, one way or the other, that I wasn’t to be involved.

   “That’s football and I’ll handle that and move forward and hopefully continue to get better.”

4. Rangers set huge fee for Butland – gossippublished at 08:30 22 July

   08:30 22 July

   Rangers have put a £30m price tag on Jack Butland as they look to ward off interest in their first-choice goalkeeper. (Football Insider), external

   Defender John Souttar insists Rangers don’t have to panic at the prospect of losing captain James Tavernier, who is being linked with a move to Turkey. (Daily Record), external

   Read the rest of Monday’s Scottish gossip.

   

6. ‘Have to sell’ or keep ‘without doubt’ – your views on Tavernierpublished at 21:57 21 July

   21:57 21 July

   

   We asked for your thoughts on whether you would like to see James Tavernier stay at Rangers, as rumours circle surrounding the defender’s future at the club.

   Here’s a taste of what you had to say:

   Gordon: If Rangers can get decent money for Tavernier, they should take it. He’s 32-years old, and has been a decent servant to Rangers. If he can get a good payday for what might be his last money-making transfer, let him go. Works for both parties.

   Donald: A great servant and player for Rangers, who has got terrible abuse from some fans. He has scored vital goals and has been a great captain but criticised for his lack of silverware. I wish him all the very best if he does go.

   Elaine: We have to sell. We do not want to be in the same position as before and let anyone run down their contract. Tavernier is 32. He’s served us well but it’s time to cash in and move on.

   Mike: How many matches has Tavernier won or saved for us? We’re not exactly rolling in game-changers; with all the changes Philippe Clement is making, let’s not go shipping out the one regular goal-scorer we have!

   Ben: Tav can still do a job for the Gers but not at right-back. We need Dujon Sterling behind and further forward getting down the flanks. His crossing and dead-ball passes are unequaled in the SPFL and his goal count can’t be ignored.

   Tracy: I am a huge fan of Tavernier. What he fails on, he more than makes up for with winning goals, team spirit and passion. He’s a Rangers man and has pride wearing the shirt week in, week out. I would without doubt have him in our team this season.

   Billy: Tav won’t be easy to replace. Very much depends on the fee. Hopefully we won’t give him away for peanuts. I guess that we must hope that the manager knows what he’s doing and that his new signings are up to it.

   Andy: Rangers should get some money for Tav while they can. It makes sense for him to secure some higher wages for the last few years of his career. He is underappreciated by many who are too critical of his defending. The best form of defence is attack and he’s contributed more than his fair share in goals and assists. In big games too, in Europe and domestically. Legend.

   Callum: Tav has been a magnificent servant to the club ever since his arrival and I for one will be sad to see him go. But his time is over, be it because of age or loss of form and I wish him nothing but the very best wherever he decides to go to end his great career.