A Turbulent Start for Russell Martin and a Fractured Team

Rangers are facing a turbulent start to the Scottish Premiership season under head coach Russell Martin, with five league games played and zero victories. The Ibrox side currently sits in 10th place in the 12-team table, a far cry from the expectations of a club with such a storied history. Neil McCann, a former Rangers winger and assistant manager, described the team as “ragged” after their recent 2-0 defeat to Hearts at home, a result that marked the first time Rangers had lost at home to Hearts since 2014.

Martin, who took charge with a high-risk, possession-based approach, has struggled to implement his vision effectively. Despite his bold strategies, the team has only managed two European qualifying wins and a narrow victory in the Premier Sports Cup. The lack of success has left players visibly anxious, with captain James Tavernier admitting the team felt “ashamed” of their performance. The fans have been vocal in their dissatisfaction, with boos echoing through the stadium following the defeat.

The defensive vulnerabilities have been a recurring theme, with exposed full-back areas and high defensive lines leaving gaps for opposing wingers to exploit. On-loan defender Jayden Meghoma has been criticized for his lack of impact, while the absence of key players like Nico Raskin has further complicated matters. Raskin, who has been sidelined despite returning from international duty, is seen as a crucial piece missing from the puzzle.

Martin has assured fans that the situation with Raskin is being addressed, but the lack of immediate results has led to growing frustration. With upcoming fixtures against Hibernian and Genk, the pressure is mounting on Martin to adapt his tactics or face the possibility of being forced out of the job. As the season progresses, the question remains whether Martin can turn things around or if the Rangers’ current struggles will continue to define their campaign.

Adding to the woes, the team’s attacking struggles have been equally concerning. Rangers have scored only three league goals so far, with none coming from open play. The late equaliser against Dundee was a penalty from James Tavernier, while the other two goals came from set pieces. This has raised concerns about the team’s ability to break down opponents in open play, especially with the departure of key strikers like Cyriel Dessers and Hamza Igamane.

Former Rangers forward Rory Loy has called for a resolution to the Nico Raskin saga, stating that the midfielder’s absence is a glaring omission in the team’s lineup. Raskin, who provided eight of his 10 assists last season from open play, has been a key figure in the team’s attacking structure. His absence has left a void that has been difficult to fill.

As the season moves forward, the pressure on Martin to deliver results is mounting. With the upcoming fixtures against Hibernian and Genk, the club’s board and fans will be watching closely to see if Martin can adapt his approach or if the current struggles will continue to define the season.

Rangers’ recent performance has also raised questions about the integration of new signings. Martin has brought in players like Bojan Miovski and Youssef Chermiti, but neither has made a significant impact on the scoreboard. Miovski, a proven goalscorer in the Premiership, has yet to find the net, while Chermiti, a promising young forward, has struggled to make his mark.

The club’s management has emphasized that the transition period is expected to be difficult, with Martin acknowledging the challenges of rebuilding a squad that has undergone significant changes. However, the fans are growing impatient, and the lack of tangible progress has led to calls for immediate action.

As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Martin can turn the tide or if the Rangers’ current struggles will continue to define their campaign. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of the manager and the direction of the club.