Russell Martin apologises to Rangers fans and details positive talks with Ibrox chiefs

Russell Martin has vowed to fight on as Rangers manager after their 6-0 humiliation in Brugge, but admits he has nothing but apologies for the Ibrox support

A gutted Russell Martin has offered nothing but apologies to the Rangers supporters who have been clamouring for his departure after a dismal showing in Belgium.

Despite the calls for his sacking following Rangers’ 6-0 thrashing by Brugge, he has confirmed that he is staying put after discussions with Patrick Stewart and Kevin Thelwell in the wake of their worst European defeat ever, which saw them exit the Champions League qualifiers with a 9-1 aggregate loss.

The Ibrox team’s nightmarish evening was compounded by an early goal against them and Max Aarons’ sending off, marking a series of unfortunate events.

This adds to Martin’s record of having the poorest start by any Rangers manager, with only three wins from his first ten games at the helm.

Supporters were vocally demanding his removal before the break as Brugge continued to score, reports the Daily Record.

When questioned on TNT Sports about what he would say to those who think his time is up, Martin responded: “I can’t say anything. I apologise for the performance.”

He acknowledged the fans’ support and emphasised that the only way to make amends is by securing a victory and delivering an exceptional performance in their upcoming match against Celtic on Sunday.

With the next challenge being the derby against Celtic at Ibrox, there’s speculation about whether Martin will last until then given his disastrous beginning.

However, when asked if he harbours any doubts about his future, Martin confidently stated: “No. I’ve had a chat with Patrick and Kevin already. They’re amazing, they’re really supportive.

“They understand that this might take time, they knew that before they came in. They understand the position and where we’re at, and all the focus is now on Sunday.

“The only thing we can do tonight is accept the pain, the humiliation and the hurt that we are going to feel, and then use it for fuel.

“There’s no other choice. There is another choice, but it’s not an acceptable one for us and this group right now.”

Reflecting on the match, Martin acknowledged his side had made things incredibly difficult for themselves with a disastrous opening period in Belgium, where they shipped an early goal and saw Max Aarons dismissed for a senseless red card.

He continued: “We start terribly. It’s madness really. A tough night got even tougher. We apologise to the fans that travelled and the fans back home.

“We didn’t respond well enough to an early setback. We have to show a big response on Sunday.

“There’s not enough harmony or care for each other quite yet. We knew that coming in… We have to build that. That harmony has been disrupted for sure. It’s nowhere near acceptable for this group.”