STEVEN GERRARD has challenged captain James Tavernier to maintain his stunning start to the season in the coming months.

The right-back netted his seventh goal in seven games as Rangers beat Galatasaray on Thursday night to clinch a spot in the Europa League.

Tavernier's performances domestically have seen him named the Player of the Month for September and Gerrard hopes there is plenty more to come this term.

Gerrard said: "He has come back really hungry with a real strong pre-season under his belt. Physically he is looking like the powerhouse we know he can be.

"He is playing with confidence and a smile on his face. He is certainly back to his best and I think he’s got strong as each game has gone by.

"But I think it is his application and approach that has really impressed, right from returning on June 15.

"The challenge for Tav is that he has set a standard and he needs to try and maintain it for the rest of the season

"But he certainly deserves the accolade. He has been really consistent this month."