Rangers in Crisis: Can Russell Martin Salvage Season Amidst Worst Start in 36 Years?
Rangers face mounting pressure after their worst league start in 36 years. With Champions League hopes fading and a critical Old Firm clash looming, can Russell Martin steady the ship amidst player unrest and fan fury?
Pressure Mounts on Martin’s Rangers
Rangers’ 1-1 draw against St Mirren marked their third consecutive stalemate in the Scottish Premiership, sparking outrage among supporters and pundits alike. Manager Russell Martin called the result "not the end of the world", but former striker Kris Boyd slammed the team as "a million miles away" from title contention on Sky Sports.
Champions League Hopes Hang by a Thread
Trailing 3-1 to Club Brugge after a disastrous first-leg Champions League qualifier, Rangers face near-impossible odds in Belgium. Their European struggles compound domestic woes, with Celtic poised to extend a nine-point lead if they triumph in next weekend’s Old Firm derby.
Key Issues Plaguing Ibrox:
- Defensive Fragility: Conceded first in 5 of 9 games under Martin
- Midfield Malaise: Summer signing Joe Rothwell admitted losing midfield battles against St Mirren
- Dressing Room Unrest: Hamza Igamane’s refusal to substitute highlights squad discord
Fan Backlash Reaches Fever Pitch
Supporters booed players off the pitch in Paisley, with veteran fan Colin calling this "the worst team in 55 years". Martin faces growing comparisons to sacked predecessors Van Bronckhorst and Beale.
Critical Fixtures Ahead
| Date | Opponent | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 28 | Club Brugge (A) | Champions League Playoff |
| Sep 1 | Celtic (H) | Scottish Premiership |
| Sep 14 | Hearts (H) | Premiership |
Expert Verdict
Billy Dodds (Former Rangers Coach):
"The next fortnight could define their season. They need leaders to emerge quickly."
Kris Boyd’s Scathing Assessment:
"Players have been running the club too long. Without character and commitment, this spiral will continue."
Martin’s Last Stand?
The embattled manager insists transfer window uncertainty affects performances:
"When players feel their future lies elsewhere, it drains energy. We need the window closed and everyone committed."
With Ibrox tensions reaching boiling point, Wednesday’s European clash and the Celtic showdown could determine Martin’s fate.

