Kris Boyd takes swipe at Celtic as he’s asked Rangers Russell Martin sack question
Kris Boyd has delivered his verdict on Russell Martin’s future at Rangers after his disastrous start at Ibrox.
With Rangers dropping points against St Mirren, Martin is yet to win his first SPFL game in charge, despite managing three games in the Scottish top flight.
The Ibrox outfit also lost 3-1 at home to Club Brugge and risk missing out on the Champions League as they have to win by three clear goals in Belgium to go through.
Kris Boyd believes Rangers fans happier than Celtic supporters
Much like Gers, Celtic have also faltered in Europe and will not be playing in the Champions League this season.
The Hoops had to beat Kairat over two legs, but both games ended 0-0 and they ended up losing in the penalty shootout.
However, domestically, Brendan Rodgers’ side have done well, winning all three of their league matches.
With Martin walking on thin ice at Rangers, Boyd was asked if he believes the former Southampton manager is under pressure at the club.
| Table Position | Wins | Losses | Draws | Points |
| 7th | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 |
While the former Gers striker admitted that Martin will be feeling the heat, he also poked fun at Celtic after they got knocked out of the Champions League by losing their play-off clash.
Boyd said on Sky Sports News: “Anytime you’re a football manager, you’re under pressure.
“There’s no getting away from it, but when you’re at a huge football club and you’re not winning games, especially the best when Rangers have been so poor for a number of years now, and the fans expected with the takeover, new manager, new investment and new players coming in, you’ve got to say it has been a pretty poor start domestically.
“That Danilo goal could be huge, but I can’t see Rangers going through tonight. It’d be more about putting on a good account of ourselves, showing that there are signs of improvement there for the team, and see where that takes them, you know.
“A lot of Rangers fans will just be absolutely delighted that they’ve managed to go further in the competition than Celtic have.”
Russell Martin may have another month to save his job
Martin’s appointment came with sky-high expectations to challenge Celtic’s dominance after the Light Blues finished 17 points adrift last season.
Known for his possession-based philosophy inspired by Pep Guardiola, emphasising ball control, bravery, and progression through thirds, Martin must swiftly impose this distinct style on a squad accustomed to more pragmatic approaches under predecessors like Philippe Clement.
Yet, early signs are ominous as recent games have exposed defensive frailties and tactical rigidity, with fans fleeing Ibrox at half-time and vociferously demanding change.
If Martin cannot orchestrate game dominance, which includes controlling possession above 60 per cent, creating relentless chances, and securing comfortable league victories against mid-table foes like St Mirren or Dundee, by September’s end, the pressure will intensify.
With the Old Firm derby looming and the board, including sporting director Kevin Thelwell, prioritising a winning team and strong culture, the owners will likely initiate a managerial search by October, unwilling to risk another trophyless campaign amid fan unrest and Celtic’s stranglehold.
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