Russell Martin’s job as Rangers manager has been given a reprieve after his team’s 2-0 win over Hibernian at Ibrox, which secured a spot in the Scottish League Cup semi-finals. The victory was ironic, considering fan protests outside the stadium hinted at Martin’s potential sacking had the team lost. Chairman Andrew Cavenagh was present at the match, adding to the pressure.

Key Factors in Martin’s Job Security

– Nico Raskin’s Performance: Raskin’s brilliant header opened the scoring, and his return to form has been instrumental in Rangers’ recent success. Martin’s relationship with Raskin has improved, and the player’s talent has been crucial in saving Martin’s job.

– Bojan Miovski’s Goal: Miovski’s goal sealed the win, showcasing the team’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

– Fan Protests: Despite the win, fan protests against Martin’s management have been evident, with some calling for his dismissal due to the team’s inconsistent performance.

Future Challenges for Martin

– Upcoming Matches: Rangers face critical matches, including their Europa League fixture against Genk and a league visit to Livingston. These matches will be crucial in determining Martin’s long-term future at the club.

– Player Form: The form of players like Mohamed Diomande and Connor Barron will be closely watched. Raskin’s return to the starting lineup might impact Barron’s playing time, potentially affecting team dynamics.

– Club’s Expectations: With the win over Hibs, Martin has bought himself some time. However, the club’s expectations remain high, and consistent performance will be necessary to win back fan support.

Potential Replacement Speculation

– Sean Dyche: The former Burnley manager has been linked to the Rangers job if Martin is sacked.

– Davide Ancelotti: Ancelotti’s experience and coaching abilities make him a potential candidate for the top job.

– Steven Gerrard: Gerrard’s managerial experience and connection to Rangers make him a possible contender.

Despite the recent win, Martin’s position remains precarious. The club has already begun assessing alternatives, and fan support is crucial for his long-term survival. With big games looming, Martin must deliver consistent results to prove his worth ¹.