Russell Martin wants new Rangers transfer now as ‘priority’ emerges at Ibrox
Russell Martin may have already indicated his priority at Rangers this summer transfer window.
The Scottish manager took charge of his first competitive game as the Gers manager, beating Panathinaikos 2-0 in the Champions League at home on 22 July.
Now, the Light Blues will travel to Athens to face the Greek outfit in the second leg of the qualifying round, aiming to progress further in the competition.
Martin made some interesting calls at Ibrox with his starting lineup, which could potentially suggest the position he wants to strengthen before the end of August.
Rangers to prioritise left-back transfer as Martin plays Max Aarons
A new left-back may be a “priority” for the Gers in the ongoing transfer window, Keith Jackson says.
The Daily Record journalist believes that Martin’s decision to play Max Aarons on the left side of defence against Panathinaikos highlights the need for reinforcements in the position.
| Appearances | Minutes played |
| 9 | 338 |
Jackson feels the Scottish manager wants to bolster his defence further at Ibrox this summer, but it remains to be seen whether the Light Blues end up signing someone.
Speaking on Hotline Live (28 July), he said: “I do agree, I think Rangers need further work.
“A left-back, I imagine, has to be a priority. If you prefer a guy that’s just come up on loan, who’s a right-back by trade, if you prefer playing him to anybody else you’ve got at left-back, it suggests that’s how Martin feels too.”
Aarons had stinker against Panathinaikos at Ibrox
Aarons could have enjoyed a better competitive debut at Ibrox, leading to questions among the fanbase regarding the left-back spot.
Panathinaikos threatened the Gers on multiple occasions in the first half, with the Bournemouth loanee culpable for some of the visitors’ chances.
Martin played the 25-year-old as an inverted full-back, and he was often seen in midfield during the game, but the defender gave the ball away cheaply several times, allowing the Greeks to counter.
Aarons did play a big part during the build-up of Rangers’ second goal, though, with former Sheffield Wednesday forward Djedi Gassama scoring with an impressive strike.
It’s clear that the Englishman has decent quality, but he looked uncomfortable playing at left-back.
The Scottish manager will certainly need to come up with a solution if he doesn’t trust Jefte or Ridvan Yilmaz, and reinforcements may be needed in G51 soon.
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