Kasanwirjo Reflects on Tavernier’s Guidance and Anticipates Aberdeen Clash

Neraysho Kasanwirjo stated that a motivational discussion with captain James Tavernier proved “helpful” before his initial start in the Scottish Premiership. The 22-year-old Dutch defender, on loan from Feyenoord, played as the right-sided full-back, filling in for Tavernier, during the Ibrox side’s 2-1 victory over St Mirren. Kasanwirjo expressed gratitude for the encouraging remarks from Tavernier, whom he described as the “father of the team”. Kasanwirjo recounted Tavernier’s advice: “He [Tavernier] came to me before the game and he said just enjoy the game.” He further elaborated, “He said to me don’t look at it like I replaced James Tavernier, just play for the team. And he said, just enjoy.” Kasanwirjo affirmed the impact of the advice, stating, “Yeah, I think it was a lot [helpful].” He added, “He’s the father of the team. I’m the young boy. So it’s good for the young boys to have somebody like this.” Regarding his future role, Kasanwirjo commented, “Yeah, I want to start every week, but it is up to the coach and up to me how I train to give the best impression of myself.” Rangers are scheduled for a midweek away match at Pittodrie, aiming to reduce the points difference with second-place Aberdeen. Kasanwirjo acknowledged the necessity for his teammates to “compete again” in anticipation of what is expected to be a highly competitive match. Kasanwirjo stated: “Yeah, of course, every game is a fight, not only Aberdeen, but for example, the game against St Mirren was a fight as well. You see that we didn’t win that easy.” He continued, “I think every game is a massive game. This [St Mirren] game, last Thursday, Wednesday, the Sunday again. So we have to compete every day.” Emphasizing internal focus, he added, “It is only about us. We have to play well. And as I said before, every game is a massive game, not only Aberdeen.” Kasanwirjo concluded by outlining their approach: “So we look game by game. Sunday was the game against St Mirren. Wednesday is Aberdeen, where we have to compete again.”