Russell Martin Defiant Amidst Rangers' European Humiliation and Domestic Struggles
Russell Martin Defiant Amidst Rangers' European Humiliation and Domestic Struggles
Rangers head coach Russell Martin has expressed unwavering confidence in his role, even as the club grapples with a historically significant European exit and a dismal start to their domestic campaign. The Govan side suffered a humiliating 9-1 aggregate defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League play-offs, culminating in a devastating 6-0 away loss in Belgium – their heaviest away defeat in all competitions since 1963.
The comprehensive failure marks the third consecutive season Rangers have missed out on the Champions League group stage, a bitter pill for fans who voiced their displeasure, with banners at Ibrox calling for Martin's immediate dismissal.
However, Martin, who is less than three months into his tenure, asserts he has the full backing of the club's hierarchy. "Patrick and Kevin, I've had a chat with them already. They're amazingly supportive," Martin stated, referring to chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell. He added, "They knew this would take time, they understand the club's position."
The challenges extend beyond Europe, with Rangers failing to secure a victory in their first three Scottish Premiership matches. This marks the worst start for a new Rangers manager since John Greig in 1978, piling immense pressure on Martin ahead of a crucial Old Firm Derby against rivals Celtic on Sunday.
Addressing the upcoming derby, Martin acknowledged the team's current state. "We're still trying to find out the best XI. On Sunday, we need to put a team on the pitch that is really willing to give everything," he commented. Despite admitting the European defeat was "probably the toughest night I've had as a head coach" and feeling embarrassed, he maintains that a win against Celtic is not a prerequisite to save his job, though he stressed the importance of a strong performance to uplift spirits.
Both Rangers and Celtic, who were also eliminated from the Champions League play-offs, will now compete in the Europa League this season.