NafisaRangers finally have a new boss in place after confirming the hiring of Russell Martin on Thursday.
The Gers dismissed Philippe Clement at the end of February and installed Barry Ferguson in interim charge until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.
After stating a few weeks ago that Ferguson would not be continuing, several candidates were linked with the top position at Ibrox.
Davide Ancelotti was the frontrunner for the Rangers role for some time, but Martin impressed during interviews and is now officially the man to spearhead this new chapter at Ibrox.
Derek Ferguson shares early Martin ‘pressure’ warning:
Martin‘s arrival on 5 June was not received with unanimous enthusiasm, with many feeling Ancelotti would have been a more appealing option.
Indeed, even Steven Gerrard – who departed from Rangers, remember – might have been more widely welcomed.
And according to Rangers-diehard pundit Derek Ferguson – Barry’s brother – Martin will need to start strongly if he is to win over the supporters.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News after Martin’s appointment was confirmed, Ferguson said: “This is a little bit underwhelming for a lot of the Rangers fans.
“But we will get behind him as we do for our managers. There is no room for error and you feel and he certainly needs to hit the ground running.
“That means a perfect start to the campaign. If not the pressure will be on.”
Martin needs immediate support from American owners:
Martin’s arrival comes during a promising period for Rangers, with Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises now also assuming majority control.
The expectation is that Rangers already have summer signings identified and ready to execute, giving Martin a stronger team to work with than the one that concluded last term.
Martin has a challenge ahead to earn the backing of the fanbase, but by securing victories he will certainly achieve that.
Nafisa
