Steven Gerrard has pleaded with Rangers fans to support James Tavernier as he struggles to find his best form at Ibrox.
The former Newcastle defender has been at fault for several goals over the last month, and has also missed three penalties already in a difficult campaign.
The 27-year-old has now been backed to improve by his manager, who has urged supporters to give him their full backing.
Gerrard said: “I’d like the crowd to help James a bit more.
“Sometimes when it’s tough and you’re not at your best, you need your crowd to be with you rather than against you.
“So, there’s a plea for the crowd to stay with him because he will play through it and he can change games, like he did for us here.
“It was an excellent delivery for Filip [Helander]’s goal and a fantastic header, but James needs his people now.
“There were a few groans and moans and it doesn’t help. I understand it. I get it. I was just as frustrated as them on the sidelines.
“But when you are a player in the firing line and not everything is going for you, you need your people with you. You need your team-mates with you.
“Yes, we didn’t hit the level against Motherwell, but we are in a good place in the Europa League, have a semi-final this weekend and are top of the league besides goal difference. We need the fans.
“The fans have been absolutely outstanding with me from the first day, so write about that. But not every player stays at the top of their game for 60 days. Big players have dips.
“However, when you feel them on your back even more, it is very difficult to play through it and find form quickly.”
Although Gerrard admitted that he will consider taking penalty duties away from the Englishman, he believes that with more support, Tavernier will get back to his best.
He added: “We need our punters with us. They are always with us in the bigger picture and getting behind the team but groaning when someone over-hits a cross. It doesn’t help.
“I’ll consider it [taking Tavernier off penalties]. I don’t think I’ll make that decision right now but it will certainly be on my mind over the next 24 to 48 hours.
“However, I don’t think you can doubt James’ character.”
