Martin ‘going all out to end Butland’s Ibrox career’ in new Rangers update
Jack Butland’s Rangers career is in doubt as Russell Martin continues his Ibrox rebuild.
The Rangers boss has been ruthless so far in deciding who is part of his plans next season.
There has already been seven new arrivals at Ibrox, with Rangers significantly strengthening their defence after a terrible last campaign.
The Gers could now to look to strengthen their goalkeeping department, which could spell the end of Butland’s time in Glasgow.
Rangers eye Rushworth and other keeper options
It has already been reported that Rangers are keen on signing Carl Rushworth, who previously spent time at Martin’s former side Swansea.
The Gers boss again looks likely to go hunting in the English Football League for a new goalkeeper, as he again shows his ruthless side with former England international, Butland.
However, according to The Scottish Sun (10 July), a move for Rushworth is now looking more unlikely after the keeper was offered a new contract at Brighton.
| Club | Appearances | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rangers | 102 | 104 | 39 |
Rangers, however, are still considering options elsewhere, with Martin looking at potential loan signings just 11 days before the first leg of their Champions League qualifier with Greek side Panathinaikos.
A move for a new keeper could see Butland offloaded or cast aside onto the bench next season.
The Gers regular is halfway through a four-year contract and is one of the highest-paid players in the Gers squad.
Butland’s form dipped towards the end of last season, with caretaker boss Barry Ferguson dropping him for Liam Kelly.
The pair shared responsibilities in the Light Blues’ 2-2 friendly with Club Brugge.
Martin is right to show his ruthless side
A big reason that Rangers struggled so much was the fact that Phillipe Clement was so happy to rest on his laurels.
The Light Blues were too happy to let their regular players’ form stagnate and not push them harder to improve.
Too many players felt too comfortable and that their starting place wasn’t in danger last campaign.
Martin has already shown his ruthless side by showing young defender Leon King that he can leave, and even if he just adds competition for Butland, it could increase the quality of the team.
Either way, the fact Martin is seemingly so desperate to land a new keeper before the Champions League qualifiers is pretty damning for Butland.
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