Russell Martin told to make instant Rangers change – ‘he understands the situation with Celtic’
Russell Martin has been appointed at Rangers but some fans have question marks over his recent spell with Southampton.
The former Scotland international, 39, got the Saints promoted but his style was quickly exposed in the Premier League – with defensive calamities a weekly occurance.
Martin was dismissed at St Mary’s Stadium in December 2024 with the club picking up only five points from 16 games – and Southampton were eventually relegated.
He has now signed a three-year deal at Ibrox following the 49ers Enterprises takeover at Rangers.
Aberdeen’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Pittodrie between 2000 and 2004, had lengthy spells as the chief of Everton and Aston Villa and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – has insisted Martin will have to make an immediate change to ensure success in Glasgow.
Martin must change to have Rangers success, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness insisted he expects Martin’s Rangers side to be “a lot more direct” than his Southampton team.
The Saints’ possession-heavy, build from the back approach saw them promoted but was quickly worked out in the English top flight.
Wyness insisted he believes Martin has the ability to be flexible as he adjusts to management in the Scottish Premiership.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “Martin will have to settle his style of play quickly.
“I think he’ll have to be a lot more direct than he was with Southampton.
“But I believe he has the ability to be a lot more flexible than some other managers.
“It’s got to be a different style to suit the Scottish game. He’s played in and for Scotland, so he does have that knowledge.
“He’ll understand that – and also understand the situation with Celtic.
“European games are coming up quickly, and the to-do list is not a short one.
“He’ll be losing those lovely locks of hair pretty quickly, if he’s not careful.
“I think he’s capable, he’s bright, he’s a good manager – and I believe he will do well.
“Things are looking much better and brighter for Rangers. I expect Martin to come out of the traps with a fired-up, motivated squad with new additions.”
Rangers will accept £20m Raskin offer
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (13 June) that Rangers won’t reject a £20million offer for Nicolas Raskin as they aim to make a “huge” profit from his sale.
European giants Porto, Marseille and Fiorentina have recently joined the race to sign the midfielder and could be prepared to test the Glasgow club’s resolve.
Raskin, 24, is under contract until 2027 after joining from Standard Liege in January 2023.
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