Why Russell Martin ticks the boxes for Rangers as brief Ibrox stint a vital lesson if he lands top job
The Ibrox club are on the verge of picking a new boss with Martin and Davide Ancelotti in the running
Steven Naismith believes Russell Martin is the outstanding candidate to become Rangers' new manager.
The Ibrox club are on the verge of picking Philippe Clement's successor, with Martin and Italian coach Davide Ancelotti in the running.
New Gers sporting director Kevin Thelwell has told fans to expect an announcement within days.
And Naismith is adamant that his former Norwich and Scotland team-mate Martin is perfectly suited for the job.
The ex-Hearts gaffer says Martin is the right type of character to lead the Ibrox club under their new American owners.
And he claims Martin's brief spell as a Rangers player seven years ago will be vital if he's chosen to take over.
Naismith told Record Sport: 'I think Russell would be a good appointment for Rangers.
'From the names that have been mentioned, Russell ticks most boxes.
'He's got a clear playing style and he's been at the club before.
'He's been a manager for a number of years now and anyone who has reservations will quickly see what he wants to do - and how he wants to do it.
'Players will back him because it's an enjoyable way to play.
'Is he a big enough personality, leader and character to do the Rangers job? I think he is.
'He'll have an idea from his short stint at the club as a player as to what's required.
'That was during a poor spell for Rangers so he'll have understood the frustrations and expectations.
'He'll have felt the backlash that came with it.
'In terms of his character, he's shown that already in his managerial career.
'Russell has been told he can't do certain things with a team or urged to do other things.
'But he's got a strong mind on him and has never bowed to that.
'It has got him from MK Dons to Swansea, to then taking Southampton into the Premier League.'
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