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'Martin would use Southampton hurt to his advantage'

'Martin would use Southampton hurt to his advantage'

BBC News04-06-2025
Russell Martin will use the hurt he suffered at Southampton in a positive way should he become new Rangers head coach, according to his former boss Chris Hughton.Former MK Dons and Swansea manager Martin is believed to be the frontrunner for the vacant post at Ibrox.However, many Rangers fans are underwhelmed by the potential appointment of Martin, who had a short loan spell as a player in Govan in 2018.Martin, who was captain under Hughton at Norwich, brought Southampton up to the Premier League through the play-offs in 2024 but was sacked by December as they headed back towards the Championship with one win from his first 16 games.But Hughton offered a glowing character reference, saying on Talksport: "If I'm looking at Russell's managerial background, he is known for playing a certain way, very expansive, very much a passing game and progression through the thirds."But he's a strong personality also. He's had a few knockbacks in his football career so far."I think any knockbacks, he will look at very much as experience and look to improve in every aspect he can."I think he's had a few offers, so this is somebody that's still very respected in the game. He's a very confident individual and very confident in what he wants to do on the football pitch."He was very much a leader in the changing room, vocal in the meetings we had and he was my voice when it came to any sort of direction on the players."So it's no surprise to me that he eventually went into management. He always showed those characteristics."
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