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Scotsman
a day ago
- Sport
- Scotsman
What system is Russell Martin likely to implement at Rangers? Formation, philosophy and tactics examined
This is how Russell Martin is likely to set his Rangers team up following his appointment as manager Sign up to our Football newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Rangers search for a new manager has concluded after the club confirmed former Scotland international Russell Martin as the new man in the Ibrox dugout. Signing a three-year-deal in Govan, the ex-Southampton head coach has been out of work since his departure from St Mary's in December, but has now been named as the permanent successor to Philippe Clement who was sacked by the club 101 days ago following a 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Beating off competition from ex-Real Madrid assistant manager Davide Ancelotti, the highly-rated 39-year-old coach said it was 'a privilege to be named head coach of Rangers Football Club at the beginning of this exciting new chapter', before adding: "I know what this club demands. From my time here, I had a taste of how special this club is, the expectation, the passion and the history.' While the appointment has been met with a lukewarm response by sections of the Rangers fanbase, many are curious to see how their former loanee will do in the Ibrox dugout, with Martin viewed as one of the UK's best young coaches. Here's how Martin is likely to set up his team, his preferred formation and style of play after being appointed as manager of Rangers... What formation will Russell Martin play at Rangers? Martin has tactical flexibility, and is able to adapt formations dependant on his squad, and the opposition he is facing. However, his tends to favour a system that will support his possession-based philosophy, with a 4-3-3 attacking formation implemented for the bulk of his managerial career. This appears to be the system he will most likely use at Rangers, dependant on what signings they make this summer. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad He has been known to play 3-4-2-1, 3-5-2 and 4-1-2-1, all of which allow him to use inverted full-backs, and attacking midfielders in half-spaces. His choice of formation will be based around fluid build-up, possession, and high pressing. Russell Martin played briefly for Rangers. | SNS Group What sort of system is Russell Martin likely to implement at Rangers? 'Nine times out of 10 in Scotland, Rangers will play against teams sitting in, and it's about breaking them down. I think the philosophy of Russell is all about that. He wants his team to have lots of possession, push the opposition deep and then hurt them,' said ex-Hearts head coach Steven Naismith recently and, as is well documented, Martin intends for his teams to create chances by dominating possession of the ball. His MK Dons, Swansea City and Southampton sides often topped the charts for ball possession and retention, with his style has been described as 'ultra possession' by some football statistics sites. During his promotion-winning campaign with Southampton in 2023/24, his side averaged 65.7% possession, while his MK Dons side set a British record when they scored a goal from a 56-pass move during the 2020/21 season. In that same campaign , only Manchester City and Barcelona scored a higher average possession percentage in Europe than Martin's MK Dons outfit. Adding balance and pressing style While it can often be viewed as 'death by possession', with multiple backwards and sideward passes, his intention is to always find the spare man and is designed to dominate and exploit space, while his teams are also encouraged press aggressively in order regain possession quickly when the ball in lost. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad However, he may adapt this slightly, admitting his spell with Southampton in the English Premier League last season made him consider if they should have 'tried and dominate the ball but be aware there are times when we have to suffer', saying they 'needed to make a real focus on being really difficult to play against, as well as all the stuff with the ball', before adding: 'if you could bring the beauty with a ball, but also bring the darkness with that stuff, you need both." Use of a single-pivot He also likes to use a single pivot midfielder to help implement his style. The centrepiece of any Martin team, he relied heavily on Flynn Downes at Southampton, and Matt Grimes during his time at Swansea in those roles. He likes his pivot to dominate the game, in order to swing control into his team's favour. Width and particularly ball-playing defenders As attested to above, Martin wants his teams to dictate the tempo of a game, making ball-playing defenders (such as Rangers-linked Harry Darling) crucial to his system. His attacking midfielders or wingers are often pushed forward. Martin's philosophy, in simple terms, is perhaps best summed up by the man himself when he said: 'The more we have the ball, the more we can control the game and take the fight out of opposition teams', and he has a real commitment to it, saying previously: 'I cannot stand on the sidelines watching something I don't feel connected with or love.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Former Southampton manager Russell Martin has been confirmed as the new Rangers head coach. (Photo by) What has Russell Martin said about his style of play? 'Express ourselves' 'We want to dominate possession, play with courage, and control the tempo of the game. It's about expressing ourselves through the ball.' Aggressive high-press 'We press high to win the ball back quickly and keep the opposition under pressure. It's about being proactive and relentless.' Fluid formations at Southampton 'Our system is flexible. Fullbacks can invert, midfielders can push into attacking spaces. It's about creating overloads and exploiting spaces intelligently.' Taking risks and identity 'I'd rather we lose playing our way than compromise our identity. Mistakes will happen, but they're part of learning to be brave.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Player relationships 'The players need to trust the process. It's demanding, but when they see it work, it's incredibly rewarding.' Nicolas Raskin could play an important role in Russell Martin's system. | Getty Images Which Rangers players will fit into Russell Martin's system? It is clear he will have a big reliance on his Rangers players executing a possession-based, high-pressing style as he seeks to restore Rangers' dominance in the Scottish Premiership. This means Nicolas Raskin could play a huge role in his side, either as the pivot or a box-to-box midfielder. The Belgian international had an 86% passing rate in the 2024/25 Scottish Premiership campaign, making him a prime candidate to start in Martin's midfield, with Raskin likely to be given the task of dominate the game with his passing and aggressive pressing. Cyriel Dessers could also play a big role in his system, with the Nigerian particularly adept at pressing. He will lead the Rangers press and look to squeeze the space against a low-block, while he'll also be the team's focal point in the middle of the front three. 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Scotsman
a day ago
- Business
- Scotsman
Rangers confirm Russell Martin as next head coach: contract details, backroom team, what key men had to say
Former Scotland defender is first manager under new Ibrox regime Sign up to our Football newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Rangers have confirmed the appointment of Russell Martin as their new head coach. Martin has signed a three-year deal with the Ibrox club and ends a protracted managerial hunt spanning three months. The 39-year-old replaces Philippe Clement, who was sacked back in February, and will be the first head coach under the new Rangers ownership, spearheaded by chairman Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A former Scotland centre-half who had a brief loan spell at Rangers in the 2017/18 season, Martin has been out of football management since being sacked by Southampton last December. He led the Saints to the English Premier League two campaigns ago, but struggled in the top flight, winning one of his 16 games before the axe fell. Rangers have confirmed the appointment of Russell Martin as their new head coach. | Getty Images Martin was linked with a move to Leicester City last month before emerging as a chief candidate for the Rangers vacancy. The Ibrox club were also heavily linked with former boss Steven Gerrard and ex-Real Madrid assistant Davide Ancelotti before settling on the Scotsman. Martin, who started his managerial career at MK Dons in 2019 before moving to Swansea in 2021, will be assisted by Matt Gill and Rhys Owen. Confirming Martin's arrival, a statement from Rangers read: 'Rangers Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Russell Martin as Head Coach of our men's first team on a three-year deal. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Martin's Rangers privilege 'Martin, 39, has managed over 250 games in professional football at MK Dons, Swansea City and Southampton, leading the latter to promotion to the Premier League in 2024. 'Capped 29 times for Scotland, Martin's playing career was extensive, not least as captain of Norwich City in the English top-flight, while he also had a short loan spell at Rangers in 2018. Joining Martin in Glasgow will be Assistant Head Coach, Matt Gill, and Performance Coach, Rhys Owen.' On his appointment, Martin said: 'It is a privilege to be named head coach of Rangers Football Club at the beginning of this exciting new chapter. "I know what this club demands. From my time here, I had a taste of how special this club is, the expectation, the passion and the history. Now, as I return, I'm determined to bring success back, for the supporters, the players, and everyone inside this club. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Russell Martin played briefly for Rangers. | SNS Group "There's a lot to be done, but the goal is clear: win matches, win trophies, and give Rangers fans a team that they can be proud of. We want to play with bravery, to take the ball, to be aggressive, and to stand up in the big moments. "Preparations for pre-season are already underway. I look forward to meeting the players and building a squad that our fans can believe in." Rangers chief executive Patrick Stewart, who led the search along with Kevin Thelwell, said: 'Our criteria for our next coach were clear: we wanted a coach who will excel in terms of how we want to play, improve our culture, develop our squad, and ultimately win matches. Russell was the standout candidate. 'This appointment is about building a winning team and a strong culture. He is no stranger to our club, we expect success and Russell knows that. We are excited for his leadership.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Rangers' outstanding candidate' Thelwell added: 'Through the many conversations Patrick and I have had with Russell in recent weeks, he has emerged as the outstanding candidate. 'Russell comes to Rangers with hard-earned experience. His time in the Premier League has sharpened his approach, both tactically and personally. He's better for it, and we believe that will translate into the kind of leadership and performance our supporters expect. 'We're looking forward to getting to work with Russell immediately as we prepare for a demanding and important season ahead.' New Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh. | SNS Group New Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh added: 'I am delighted to welcome Russell to Rangers. This was a thorough, rigorous process and Russell impressed throughout. His appointment embodies the club's goal of attracting top talent, empowering them, and supporting them. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We believe that Russell can improve on-pitch performance while also helping build the culture and infrastructure necessary for consistent and long-term success.'
Scotsman
3 days ago
- Business
- Scotsman
Next Rangers manager: 39 y/o 'accepts Ibrox project' as club closing in on head coach appointment
Rangers have reportedly come to a conclusion in their search for a new head coach. Sign up to our Football newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Rangers' search for a new head coach has entered the closing stages after reports claimed that ex-Scotland international Russell Martin is poised to become the next Ibrox boss. According to a report from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday morning, the club are 'closing in' on the appointment of the former Southampton head coach, who appears to have beaten off competition from ex-Real Madrid assistant manager Davide Ancelotti to be named as the club's 20th permanent manager in their history. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Out of work for the first time in his managerial career, Martin was sacked as manager of Southampton in December after winning just one of the club's opening 16 league games. Despite his struggles on the south coast though, the Brighton-born boss still maintains a reputation as one of the country's most talented young coaches, leading him to be heavily linked to the vacant role at Rangers ever since the departure of Belgian manager Philippe Clement in February. Former southampton manager Russell Martin has been linked with the vacant Rangers manager post | Getty Images Installed as the favourite to take the reins in Govan last week, it was thought newly appointed sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chairman Andrew Cavenagh had began to narrow down their list of potential candidates for the role, with Martin and Ancelotti the two main names in the frame, while ex-Rangers manager Steven Gerrard had reportedly ruled himself out of the running. Thelwell, who officially started his role at Ibrox on Monday, informed supporters the search for a new head coach would be concluded 'in the coming days', adding that there had been 'significant work going on in the background prior to my arrival, but that naturally accelerates from today." Martin had a loan spell to Rangers in the 2017/18, beginning his coaching career in EFL League One with MK Dons. The ex-Norwich City captain was landed by Swansea City in the summer of 2021 and spent two years in Wales before he was poached again, this time by Southampton. He would lead the Saints to promotion to the English Premier League in his debut season at the club, beating Leeds United 1-0 in the EFL Championship playoff final at Wembley, but struggled in the top flight last season. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The 39-year-old opened up on his departure from St Mary's, and his future management plans during an hour long conversation with former England striker Gary Lineker on The Rest Is Football podcast in April. "I turned down a few jobs in the last few months,' said Martin. 'One or two abroad, and a couple here. It didn't feel right, I wasn't ready. I was a little bit hurt, to be honest with you. But it's really at the point now where I'm starting to feel excited about what's next. 'Context is important. People forget that in football a lot. The culture of the club, what it's about, what it's been used to. I'm not sure there's certain clubs I could go into and ask for patience, where the goalie's standing on the ball for 25 seconds, but they want it put forward quickly, because that's what they've been used to. I'm aware I've probably limited my job options, somewhat.
Scotsman
3 days ago
- Business
- Scotsman
Next Rangers manager: 39 y/o accepts Ibrox project as club 'closing in' on head coach appointment
Rangers have reportedly come to a conclusion in their search for a new head coach. Sign up to our Football newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Rangers' search for a new head coach has entered the closing stages after reports claimed that ex-Scotland international Russell Martin is poised to become the next Ibrox boss. According to a report from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday morning, the club are 'closing in' on the appointment of the former Southampton head coach, who appears to have beaten off competition from ex-Real Madrid assistant manager Davide Ancelotti to be named as the club's 20th permanent manager in their history. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Out of work for the first time in his managerial career, Martin was sacked as manager of Southampton in December after winning just one of the club's opening 16 league games. Despite his struggles on the south coast though, the Brighton-born boss still maintains a reputation as one of the country's most talented young coaches, leading him to be heavily linked to the vacant role at Rangers ever since the departure of Belgian manager Philippe Clement in February. Former southampton manager Russell Martin has been linked with the vacant Rangers manager post | Getty Images Installed as the favourite to take the reigns in Govan last week, it was thought newly appointed sporting director Kevin Thelwell and chairman Andrew Cavenagh had began to narrow down their list of potential candidates for the role, with Martin and Ancelotti the two main names in the frame, while ex-Rangers manager Steven Gerrard had reportedly ruled himself out of the running. Thelwell, who officially started his role at Ibrox on Monday, informed supporters the search for a new head coach would be concluded 'in the coming days', adding that there had been 'significant work going on in the background prior to my arrival, but that naturally accelerates from today." Martin, who spent a loan on to Rangers in the 2017/18, beginning his coaching career in EFL League One with MK Dons, the ex-Norwich City captain was poached by Swansea City in the summer of 2021 and spent two years in Wales before he was poached again, this time by Southampton. He would lead the Saints to promotion to the English Premier League in his debut season at the club, beating Leeds United 1-0 in the EFL Championship playoff final at Wembley, but struggled in the top flight last season. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The 39-year-old opened up on his departure from St Mary's, and his future management plans during an hour long conversation with former England striker Gary Lineker on The Rest Is Football podcast in April. "I turned down a few jobs in the last few months,' said Martin. 'One or two abroad, and a couple here. It didn't feel right, I wasn't ready. I was a little bit hurt, to be honest with you. But it's really at the point now where I'm starting to feel excited about what's next. 'Context is important. People forget that in football a lot. The culture of the club, what it's about, what it's been used to. I'm not sure there's certain clubs I could go into and ask for patience, where the goalie's standing on the ball for 25 seconds, but they want it put forward quickly, because that's what they've been used to. I'm aware I've probably limited my job options, somewhat.
Scottish Sun
29-05-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Latest on Rangers manager hunt as new appointment timeline revealed with Farioli joining Ancelotti & Martin in the frame
Rangers fans will need to wait a little longer DECISION TIME Latest on Rangers manager hunt as new appointment timeline revealed with Farioli joining Ancelotti & Martin in the frame STEVEN GERRARD won't be making a sensational return to Rangers. The former Ibrox boss has pulled out of the running for a second stint at the club. Advertisement 4 Steven Gerrard is no longer in the race Credit: PA 4 Russell Martin is one of the leading contenders Credit: Getty 4 As is Davide Ancelotti Credit: Getty 4 Francesco Farioli is the latest name in the frame Credit: Getty Instead, US-based takeover frontman Andrew Cavenagh — on the verge of sealing the buyout of the club — will continue talks with Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin. And ex-Ajax boss Francesco Farioli has emerged as a shock new contender for the job. SunSport understands it's now unlikely any managerial appointment will be made until next week. But behind-the-scenes talks over Rangers' long-awaited takeover is believed to be close to being agreed. Advertisement Gerrard's exit from the race to replace Philippe Clement came after weeks of speculation he was on the verge of a return. Ibrox sources have told SunSport he engaged in talks in the early stages of their process. There were positive initial discussions, but the Liverpool legend decided the timing wasn't right. Gerrard is still based in Bahrain with his wife settled in the Middle East. Advertisement The 44-year-old is also on the verge of becoming a grandfather for the first time, and is eager for more family time. It's understood the Gers' title-winning boss told friends he still hopes to be considered for the job in the future. Roger Hannah and Robert Grieve debate if Davide Ancelotti or Russell Martin should be the next Rangers manager in the Coffee Club But his withdrawal has cleared the way for the club to finalise discussions with the other candidates. SunSport first broke the news ex-Southampton boss Martin was in the frame. Advertisement Italian Ancelotti has appeared to be his biggest rival for the post. He's opted to stay in Europe for talks with Gers and other possible clubs, after dad Carlo took over with Brazil this week. Sources close to the ex-Real Madrid first-team coach claim Ancelotti sees himself as the No 1 frontrunner for Ibrox. Advertisement But last night it emerged ex-Nice and Ajax gaffer Farioli had held talks too. The Italian quit the Dutch giants after failing to win the title following a dramatic late collapse. Farioli said: 'There's a lot of speculation, a lot of rumours. But I do want to get back into coaching. 'Just like it was with Ajax, I don't care about the brand or size of the club. What matters is how things are done, and last summer Ajax was exactly what I was looking for. Advertisement 'It was the right step for my career, now we'll see what comes next. We'll see if and when that opportunity arrives. 'I'm a very demanding person. Before I join a club, I lay all my strengths and weaknesses on the table. Demanding is probably the best word to describe me. I want to find a club that's willing to fight alongside me.' Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
