Paul Merson says what every last Rangers fan is already thinking about Russell Martin
Russell Martin is dominating the headlines as Rangers face Hibernian in the Premier Sports Cup.
Ibrox will host David Gray’s team on 20 September in the quarter-finals of the cup competition amid intense pressure on the Scottish manager.
Martin has the backing of Andrew Cavenagh for now, but supporters in G51 have already had enough of the 39-year-old head coach.
Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Steawart are also facing the heat at Ibrox, and the former Southampton boss should look to make changes against Hibs to get a victory.
Russell Martin told to change style of play at Rangers
Martin may be being stubborn about his footballing system at the Gers, similar to Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, Paul Merson says.
The former Arsenal attacker wants to see the Scottish manager bring excitement back to Ibrox instead of sticking with his boring style, something a lot of supporters have been frustrated with.
Merson saw the ex-Saints manager’s tactics at the Hampshire outfit and feels it would be better for the Glaswegian outfit to be more attacking.
Speaking on Sky Sports News on 20 September at 12:48, the Englishman said: “Again, we talk about Amorim, about the way he’s not changing his system and all that. I think Martin needs to start attacking and having more shots. Instead of this nicey nicey football, get the crowd off their feet.
“Even if you have the first six shots in 20 going over the bar, it gets everybody up. They’re too slow. I watched it at Southampton, nice football, but it isn’t getting you off your seats.”
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Bojan Miovski and Youssef Chermiti must start vs Hibernian
Thelwell spent a significant sum on Youssef Chermiti, only for him to be sitting on the bench for such a crucial tie against Hibernian.
The Gers spent £10million, including add-ons, to sign the Portugal Under-21 international last summer from Everton, and fans rightfully expect an instant impact from him.
With the Light Blues struggling to create opportunities in recent matches, a change in the playing system should be on the cards to have the best chance of beating Hibs.
| Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses |
| 12 | 3 | 5 | 4 |
Rangers also have a reliable outlet in Bojan Miovski, who has previously proven his talent in Scotland with Aberdeen.
The North Macedonia international will undoubtedly be better off having a partner up front to reduce some of the responsibilities on his shoulders.
While fans have already lost faith in Martin, a gung-ho approach will certainly be appreciated at Ibrox.
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