Russell Martin creates own problems at Rangers after Joe Rothwell development
Russell Martin may be digging his own grave at Rangers after showing faith in Joe Rothwell.
Supporters in G51 are already calling for the Scottish manager’s dismissal after their worst start to a league campaign in 42 years.
Martin seems to have the backing at Ibrox for the time being, but the Light Blues hierarchy could potentially have to make a decision soon, as fans are only going to get more agitated if things don’t change.
Kevin Thelwell decided to sign Rothwell from Bournemouth last summer, but the Glaswegian outfit haven’t seen the best of him this season.
Joe Rothwell shouldn’t be replacing Nicolas Raskin in Rangers team
It’s “incredible” to see Rothwell play instead of Nicolas Raskin at the Gers, Keith Jackson says.
The Daily Record journalist believes the Light Blues are shooting themselves in the foot by not utilising the Belgium international at Ibrox.
Jackson is baffled to see the 24-year-old being taken out of his position at the Glaswegian outfit for the former Bournemouth midfielder.
Speaking on Hotline Live on 8 September, the journalist said: “What mental gymnastics are required for you to say, ‘There’s Raskin. Belgium international. Going to the World Cup. Plays with Kevin De Bruyne and all these guys. Let’s take him out of his position and put Rothwell there’.
“Now, with the best will in the world for Rothwell, he’s had a decent career, he’s done fine, he couldn’t get a game at Bournemouth. This is a guy who’s walking into the Belgium international side. Honestly, talk about creating your own problems. Incredible that it’s got to this.”
Read More: Martin will need chopper out of Ibrox in worrying claim vs Hearts
Russell Martin should be sacked if he can’t bring best out of Nicolas Raskin
Martin’s situation at Ibrox feels tenuous, and fans weren’t necessarily pleased to see him drop Raskin from the squad for the Old Firm derby.
The Scottish manager has made some bold decisions at the Gers, like being adamant about his style of play, but nothing seems to be sticking.
With the Belgian star arguably the Glaswegian outfit’s most valuable asset, it doesn’t make sense to keep him out of the starting lineup, which will undoubtedly affect his value.
- Raskin scored his first goal for Belgium against Kazakhstan on 7 September.
- Martin has wanted the midfielder to play further up the pitch this season.
- The Belgian star’s contract at Ibrox expires in 2027.
Martin and Raskin need to compromise at Rangers, and Thelwell has admitted there’s a conversation to be had with the midfielder after the international break.
If the Scottish manager can’t find a way to fit one of the Gers’ best players into his system, then Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises shouldn’t persist with him.
Raskin’s situation in G51 will certainly be one to keep an eye on over the coming days.
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