James Tavernier has defended his controversial move to Israel, insisting the country is a "beautiful place with beautiful people" despite criticism over the ongoing conflict in the region.
The former Ibrox captain signed for Maccabi Tel Aviv to play under former teammate Kenny Miller. He has played two games so far and won both, including a 4-1 derby victory over Hapoel Tel Aviv.
The move attracted criticism from some supporters and commentators because of the ongoing conflict involving Israel and concerns over regional security.
However, Tavernier has labelled it a "beautiful place with beautiful people" and claimed the narrative in the UK doesn't do the nation justice.
He said: "I think, obviously, what you read and see back home, I don’t think it does justice to Israel itself. From what I’ve experienced, it’s a beautiful place.
"What I’m more excited about is that my family’s going to be moving over after the international break. We’ve never lived apart, and I never really wanted that. But my wife decided that she wants to come out, and she’s really looking forward to it because she’s experienced a good week here.
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"It’s such a beautiful place and beautiful people. Obviously, you know there’s stuff that’s happening around, but from what I’ve experienced, it’s been really lovely.”
While Tavernier's comments focused on his positive experiences in Israel, he also revealed a familiar face played a major role in convincing him to make the move.
Tavernier said: "Obviously the coach, Kenny, was a big part of it. He first rang us when I was in America on holiday with my family. He pitched that this is a club that wants to win things, and explained how passionate the club and the fans are.
“When I decided to leave Rangers, I wanted a new challenge. I especially wanted to be in the sun after experiencing 11 years in the rain a lot! I had options, but this one was about wanting to go to a place where I had the opportunity to win things, because I’ve always wanted to win things since I was a little kid.
"This was a great opportunity. Me just being in the door the past couple of weeks, experiencing the fans, the team and the club, it’s really special. I’m really happy that I made the choice. I can’t wait to get fully match fit. Two games and a couple of training sessions in, once I’m fully match fit, I think you’ll see the best of me.”
Asked if he could tell Miller would go into management, he added: "Yeah, definitely. I definitely could tell. Him and my captain at the time, Lee Wallace, he really showed that they were going to go into management.
"He’s the exact same as a player. He always wanted the standards to be really high, and he drives that into the team now. That’s his really strong point. He sets his standards, and he always wants the best. I think that will really work for the boys.”
