‘I do believe that’ – Sutton reckons Martin wanted this player replaced at Rangers
Russell Martin’s first Scottish Premiership match as Rangers manager ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw with Motherwell.
Martin has made some wholesale changes at the Light Blues so far this summer, with nine new faces arriving at Ibrox.
Robin Propper is the only big departure so far, with the Rangers boss continuing to assess his squad.
Gers are expected to let more players leave before the end of the transfer window, with one player in previously at risk of being axed.
Chris Sutton slams Butland goalkeeping
Rangers’ defence was hammered against Motherwell, and goalkeeping worries were at the centre of attention.
Jack Butland’s number one position has been in doubt for months after a poor second half of last season, and supporters had been wondering whether Martin would make a change in goal.
- Butland came under fire last season as his form dropped towards the end of Phillipe Clement’s tenure
- The 32-year-old had been tipped to be one of the best keepers in the world as a youngster
- Butland made nine appearances for the England national side between 2012 and 2018
The keeper made errors in Gers’ Scottish Premiership opener and was fortunate that Motherwell couldn’t convert more of their chances in the 1-1 draw.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton believes that Gers have made a mistake in not replacing the former England international already this summer.
Speaking on Sky Sports Main Event (2 August, 6:26pm), Sutton said: “We saw this from Butland in goal last season.
“I do believe that in pre-season, Martin was looking to change the goalkeeper. It’s poor goalkeeping.”
Talk surrounding Butland’s future quietened after his superb display in the first leg of the Champions League qualifiers against Panathinaikos.
Martin must sign a new keeper this summer
One of Clement’s biggest downfalls last season was relying on players who were past their best.
Martin has shown his ruthless side this summer by bringing in so many new players, particularly in defence.
The likes of Emmanuel Fernandez and Nasser Djiga have come in and immediately replaced Ben Davies and John Souttar, and Martin should give Butland the same treatment.
Angus Gunn was linked earlier in the summer and is still available as a free agent, and it would be wise for the Light Blues to reignite their interest, even if only for back-up at first.
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