O’Neil shares two advantages Russell Martin has after Rangers appointment
Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises decided to start their era at Rangers by appointing Russell Martin.
The ex-Southampton boss arrived at Ibrox after speculation surrounding the Gers’ vacant hot seat for several weeks.
With the US consortium completing their takeover in G51, fans have renewed hope for the Glaswegian outfit ahead of next season.
Martin didn’t look like Kevin Thelwell’s first choice, with Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti being heavily linked with the Light Blues, but he may have an edge after being given the reins.
Rangers past and indifferent season advantages for Martin at Ibrox
Martin’s previous connection with the Gers is one of his advantages, Martin O’Neil says.
The ex-Celtic boss believes the 39-year-old head coach will be familiar with the expectations at Ibrox after spending time there as a player.
O’Neil also feels the Bears’ struggles this season could benefit the former Southampton manager, who will hope to succeed at the Glaswegian outfit.
| Scottish Premiership table | Points |
| 1. Celtic | 92 |
| 2. Rangers | 75 |
Speaking on talkSPORT (16 June, 12:55), the Northern Irishman said: “[Martin] knows what to do. He has to win football matches. Really, as simple as that.
“He has a couple of advantages, I think. One, he’s been a Rangers player for half a season. So he knows what it’s all about. He knows Glasgow. He knows how big Rangers are as a football club.
“And secondly, he’s gone in after… a very indifferent domestic season for Rangers. So he’s got that as an advantage. But he’ll need some extra players.”
Martin will want time as Ibrox needs major squad rebuild
Martin is eyeing signings like Flynn Downes for a significant sum at the Gers, but it remains to be seen whether Cavenagh and the 49ers will splash the cash.
Conor Coady is also being linked with a move to Ibrox, with the Light Blues showing ambition with their approach for players with Premier League experience.
With Ianis Hagi and Vaclav Cerny leaving the Bears, Kevin Thelwell is now tasked with replacing them, and that will undoubtedly require a large investment.
Rangers look miles away from Celtic, who won their fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title, and a major squad overhaul is evidently needed in G51.
Martin will hope to get a few transfer windows before being able to reap the potential rewards of his efforts at Ibrox.
The Ibrox faithful are aware that the Bears don’t have a balanced squad, but that won’t matter as immediate success will be demanded.
Even though the ex-Saints boss should ideally be given time at the Light Blues, supporters are growing increasingly frustrated with the implementation of failed projects in recent seasons and simply want to see their team dislodge Celtic from the top spot next season.