This is what could have started Nico Raskin feud with Russell Martin at Rangers
Russell Martin has ever so slightly lifted the pressure off his shoulders after his Rangers side beat Hibernian in the Premier Sports Cup.
Rangers play Genk next on Thursday night to start their Europa League group stage journey.
Martin has lost the trust of Rangers fans already for one reason or another, and the relationship between supporters and manager now seems irreparable.
Star player Nico Raskin was involved in a bust-up with Martin, and further information on what might’ve happened has been revealed upon his return.
Barry Bannan says Russell Martin’s character may have clashed with Nico Raskin’s
Raskin missed games against Hearts and Celtic recently, but returned with a goal in the 2-0 win over Hibs, nodding home from a corner.
Sheffield Wednesday skipper Barry Bannan played alongside Martin for Scotland. He’s revealed what he believes caused the shock feud between Raskin and Martin while speaking on Open Goal.
“You don’t know what happens on a day-to-day basis. I know Russell from playing with him at Scotland, and I know how good a pro he is, always led by example,” he said.
“I can imagine he’s taken that into his managerial career as well, so if he’s seen people stepping out of line and sees certain things, he, as a pro, wouldn’t let it happen. Maybe that’s what’s happened.”
Raskin’s absence has been one of the reasons for Martin’s downfall as Rangers boss.
- Raskin has only started twice in the league this season
- He scored in the September international break for Belgium
- He scored the opening goal in Rangers’ last victory
Bannan added: “He’s their best player by a country mile, you need to try to get your best player onside.”
Raskin is a fan favourite, and Martin hasn’t done himself any favours by not playing the talented midfielder.
Martin has managed 13 games for Rangers so far, only winning a measly four of them.
Russell Martin needs to play Nico Raskin to keep his Rangers job
If Martin has any chance of keeping his job at Rangers, his best bet is to play his best player.
| Appearances | 48 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 11 |
There’s no one quite like Raskin in the squad. He brings energy and aggression that rubs off on other players, so it’s no surprise to see the clear lack of confidence in midfield right now.
Genk will prove to be a tough test in what could be Martin’s penultimate game as Rangers manager. However, if Raskin plays, Martin may just survive a little bit longer.
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