The right-back, 34, did not feature in the squad for Wednesday’s 2-1 defeat by Hibernian but received a warm ovation when he took to the pitch pre-match to be presented with a commemorative shield by Rangers great John Greig.
Afterwards, head coach Danny Rohl said Tavernier “had a medical issue” and was unsure whether he would feature in Saturday’s final game of the season at Falkirk.
And, writing on Instagram on Thursday, Tavernier explained the background of his ankle issue, which arose following last Monday’s defeat by Hearts. He started but did not finish Sunday’s loss at Celtic Park.
“The last 24 hours have been the most difficult and emotional of my career for both myself and my family,” said the Englishman.
Following discussions with the medical staff, we agreed that an injection was the only option, which was initially scheduled for Thursday.
“After Sunday’s game, and with emotions running high, I made the decision to bring the injection forward to Tuesday. That decision would have ruled me out of both Wednesday and Saturday’s matches.
“After speaking throughout Monday with my family and the medical department, I came to the decision to delay the injection so I could play one final game at Ibrox on Wednesday night.
“I informed the manager and explained how important it was to me and my family that I had the opportunity to say goodbye properly to the Ibrox faithful.”
Tavernier went on to explain that, following correspondence with Rohl, he was informed he would be a substitute. Reports surfaced just before the game that he had left Ibrox and refused to be involved in the matchday squad.
“In that moment, my emotions understandably took over,” he added.
