Russell Martin: “I’m Not Fazed by the Criticism”
Rangers manager Russell Martin is no stranger to the intense scrutiny that comes with managing an Old Firm club. After a disappointing Champions League exit to Club Brugge, Martin knows the criticism will only intensify ahead of Sunday’s match against Celtic. However, he’s determined to stay focused and lead his team to victory.
“It’s been a tough week, but you have to take a step back and not let it affect what you do next,” Martin said. “The noise is the loudest I’ve ever had to deal with, but you have to accept that and know that it’s part of the job.”
Martin believes that his experience has prepared him for the pressure and criticism that comes with managing Rangers. “This job isn’t for the timid,” he said. “I knew that when I took it. I’m really demanding of the players and staff, and I trust the work we do.”
The Rangers boss is also aware that his new signings are struggling to adapt to the intensity and scrutiny of life at an Old Firm club. “Our mental fortitude is still developing,” he said. “Some players can have a difficult start to their careers, but with patience and determination, they can overcome it.”
Martin is confident that a win against Celtic can change the narrative around his future at the club. “It’s about responding properly now,” he said. “We need to put in a performance and get a result. That will give us something to build off going into the break.”
Despite the criticism, Martin claims he’s enjoying the challenge of managing Rangers. “It’s football,” he said. “It means so much to everyone, but there’s a lot of tougher things to endure. I’m going to give it everything, and I’m really enjoying it.”
