Russell Martin Eyes Return to Management Amid Rangers Links
Former Southampton manager Russell Martin has expressed his eagerness to return to football management, amid growing speculation linking him to the vacant managerial position at Rangers Football Club.
Martin, 39, has been without a club since his dismissal from Southampton in December 2024. Despite leading the Saints to Premier League promotion via the Championship play-offs, a challenging top-flight campaign resulted in his departure after just one win in 16 matches .
In recent interviews, Martin has candidly discussed his readiness to re-enter management. “I’ve turned down a few jobs in the last few months… just because it didn’t feel right,” he revealed. “But it’s really at the point now where I’m starting to feel excited about what’s next” .
Martin’s managerial philosophy emphasizes high-pressing, possession-based football, drawing comparisons to the style implemented by Ange Postecoglou at Celtic. “To dominate the ball, you need to press high and counter-press,” he explained. “I really believe you can have both” .
His approach has reportedly caught the attention of Rangers’ prospective new owners, 49ers Enterprises, who are said to be intrigued by his tactical vision. Martin has even held preliminary talks with the group and has delayed other job offers in anticipation of the Rangers role .
However, Martin faces stiff competition from former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard, who led the club to their 55th league title in 2021. Gerrard is also reportedly in contention for a return to Ibrox.
As Rangers continue their search for a permanent manager following the departure of Philippe Clement and interim tenure of Barry Ferguson, Martin’s name remains firmly in the mix. His previous stint as a player at Rangers in 2018, though brief, adds a layer of familiarity with the club.
With a decision expected soon, Martin’s blend of modern tactics and renewed enthusiasm positions him as a compelling candidate to lead Rangers into a new era.