Tavernier grew up watching Leeds and followed the Whites as they competed at the top end of the Premier League and also in European competition.
The Rangers skipper watched Radebe at his peak at Elland Road and revealed his memories of the South African are still present.
“My idol would be Lucas Radebe. The captain of Leeds, ‘The chief’ as he is known at Leeds”, Tavernier told Rangers TV.
“He was a great leader back in the glory days of Leeds and I just remembered him being such a figure at the club.”
The 29-year-old also took time to give some advice to youngsters trying to make their mark at senior level, urging them to listen to their coaches, though admitting he often did not.
“Always play with a smile on your face, work hard, listen to the coaches; that’s something I didn’t do when I was younger, I tended not to do.
“But you just need to keep your head down, work hard and play with a smile on your face.”
Tavernier has led Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title this season and, with the defender having regularly been linked with being of interest to English clubs, it remains to be seen if the Gers will be tested with proposals for his services in the summer transfer window.
