Rangers legend Brian Laudrup has admitted the club face a 'really interesting situation' as in-form captain James Tavernier 's contract ticks down.
The right-back notched his 16th goal of the season on Sunday at Ross County as he continues to redefine what can be expected of a full-back in the Scottish Premiership.
Already a front-runner for Player of the Year and Record Sport' s player of 2020, the Englishman has been the most obvious influence over his side's incredible run of form that sees them 13 points clear at the top of the table.
And while he's been almost unstoppable this term, Laudrup has pointed to a huge decision in his mid-term future.
Tavernier's current deal is up at the end of next season and at 29, this could be his last opportunity to make a money-spinning move.
And Laudrup believes his likeliness to sign a new contract will come down to how attractive Steven Gerrard can make the next stage of his Ibrox plan appear.
He said: "Tavernier will be entering the final year of his Rangers contract come the end of this season. Gerrard has said there is no rush to be handing out new deals just now and he's right to keep the focus firmly on on-field matters.
"When the time comes, though, it will be a really interesting situation. I'm sure the club would want Tavernier signed up for the next few years but we also have to remember this could be a golden opportunity for the player.
"He is at the very best age and is playing the best football of his career. If he was to lift a trophy this season or even two he would be in a fantastic position in terms of interest from clubs in England or the continent. There is no doubt about that.
"It could all be down to how persuasive the management team are about the mission they are continuing, this project being created at Ibrox. At 29, you have three or maybe four years left at a very high level, so it will be a massive decision for him to make.
"For now, though, it is all about Tavernier enjoying the season of his life. He has been through campaigns when his confidence has been hit, when he has been criticised a lot. To be captain of Rangers when the club are suffering without trophies must have been a nightmare at times.
"That back-story will make sure he takes absolutely nothing for granted, but belief shines from him these days."
The Danish legend looks at the Premiership table and knows his old team are in a strong position, but he's been around the block long enough to know you can't count on points you are yet to win.
And he reckons pundit Kris Commons called it wrong in saying the championship is essentially over now that Rangers have their huge lead.
He said: "So far, it has been a huge help in putting Rangers in a very strong position but I have to disagree with Kris Commons after he said that he felt the title race was all but over.
"I understand his argument given the state Celtic are in just now, but let's see what happens in the next Old Firm game on January 2 first of all.
"In my view, history tells us we have to travel another two or three months down the line to see the full picture. No one at Ibrox can or will get ahead of themselves yet."
