‘Ridiculous’ – Neil Lennon hits out at Russell Martin latest at Rangers
Celtic have opened a significant gap on Rangers already in the Scottish Premiership after the draw against Dundee at Ibrox on Saturday.
James Tavernier rescued a point for Russell Martin at home on 9 August, while the Hoops beat Aberdeen 2-0 on Sunday to open a four-point lead over their Old Firm rivals.
Some of the ex-Southampton manager’s decisions at Ibrox, like dropping the skipper for Max Aarons, have been scrutinised by supporters.
There’s already a sense of apathy regarding the Bears’ prospects in the league, but there’s still a long way to go in the season.
Rangers not out of Scottish Premiership title race
It’s too early to think the Gers are out of the Scottish Premiership title race due to the points gap, Neil Lennon says.
The former Celtic manager believes it’s “ridiculous” to see Martin’s tenure being questioned at Ibrox after only two league games.
Lennon feels the Light Blues’ Champions League prospects have had a role to play in their rather poor start domestically.
Speaking on talkSPORT, as relayed by the Daily Record, the Northern Irishman said: “No, it’s early days. With Rangers, they’ve got to qualify for the Champions League, so I always think there are mitigating circumstances this time of year.
“Russell’s just in the door. He’s still got to put his imprint on the team. But the bloodlust up here it’s ridiculous. One or two games, and people are questioning his tenure.”
What changes does Martin need to make at Ibrox?
Dundee’s draw at Ibrox will certainly be damaging for the Gers, with Steven Pressley’s team seen as early favourites to get relegated.
The fans weren’t thrilled by what they were seeing on the pitch, and Martin already seems to be under pressure.
Apart from an over-reliance on Aarons at the back, the Scottish manager hasn’t handled other situations well either.
Rangers may lose Nico Raskin this summer if the 39-year-old head coach continues to keep him on the bench.
- The Gers haven’t won their opening league game in three consecutive seasons.
- After the draw against Dundee, the Light Blues have now failed to win their first two Scottish Premiership matches for the first time in 35 years.
- Martin doesn’t seem to have an answer for the Bears’ inconsistency domestically.
While the Gers are dominating possession in matches under Martin, there seems to be a lack of creativity in the final third.
The Scotsman’s substitutions in recent games have also made little sense, with Lyall Cameron often being replaced despite performing well.
Martin also needs to work on the Glaswegian outfit’s defensive solidity, but it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
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