Russell Martin must recognise Rangers mistake with John Souttar vs Hearts
John Souttar has been a massive part of the inconsistent backline at Rangers under Russell Martin.
The Scotland international has started in all but one fixture for the Gers this season as they’ve conceded 17 goals in all competitions.
Martin finds himself under extreme pressure at Ibrox after 11 matches in charge, and it remains to be seen what the future holds for him.
Souttar shone for Scotland during the international break despite his recent struggles at the Glaswegian outfit, and the former Southampton boss must take lessons from it.
John Souttar uncomfortable playing at Rangers under Russell Martin
Martin seems to be hindering Souttar’s performances due to his demands at the Gers, Derek Ferguson says.
The former Light Blues midfielder believes the Scotland international is more suited to playing Steve Clarke’s way on the international stage.
Ferguson has urged the ex-Saints boss to recognise the mistake being made with the centre-back’s position at Ibrox.
Speaking on Open Goal on 11 September, the Gers icon said: “Look at Souttar. He was more suited to that [playing for Scotland]. He wasn’t asked to break forward and play these whatever worldie passes he’s looking for. [Martin] has got to recognise that.”
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Derek Cornelius can form stable partnership with John Souttar
Derek Cornelius has faced the likes of Lionel Messi in the Copa America, putting in a decent shift against the World Cup winner with Canada.
The Gers signed the 27-year-old on loan from Olympique Marseille on deadline day, and they have an option to buy the defender at the end of his temporary spell in Glasgow.
Nasser Djiga’s performances under Martin have dipped in recent matches, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him dropped from the starting lineup at Ibrox against Hearts on 13 September.
- Cornelius made his debut for Canada in 2018.
- The defender made 21 appearances in Ligue 1 last season.
- With regular football at the Bears, the centre-back will arguably be better prepared for the 2026 World Cup.
Rangers may have a no-brainer partnership with Cornelius and Souttar, as the Scotland international may now be able to play in his preferred position in the backline after the left-footed defender’s arrival.
The Gers must find a solution to their defensive problems under the 39-year-old head coach, and the change in the centre-back partnership may be what’s needed at Ibrox.
It will be interesting to see how Martin will set up the Glaswegian outfit against Hearts, in what is undoubtedly a crunch fixture for him in G51.
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