prolific

Rangers defender James Tavernier joins Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Eden Hazard on illustrious list

Believe it or not, the full-back's goal contribution stats are among the best in Europe

By Sean O'Brien

Published: 11:35, 22 May 2019

Rangers defender James Tavernier has joined Europe's top forwards on an illustrious list - and surprisingly it's because of his attacking contributions.

The Gers skipper was involved in a staggering 37 goals this season from right-back, netting 17 times and creating 20 goals in all competitions.

Tavernier bombs forward on the Rangers right to good effect

The remarkable return puts him alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe and Eden Hazard on double figures for both goals and assists.

Nobody got more assists than Tavernier's 14 in the Scottish Premiership, while only four players scored more goals.

However, he could not inspire the Gers to a trophy as they went crashing out of the Europa League in the group stages and Celtic won all three domestic competitions yet again.

But who are the players with the most goal contributions in Europe's top five leagues this season, according to OPTA.