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Scotland international goalkeeper Angus Gunn has thrown his support behind Russell Martin as the ideal candidate to lead Rangers into a new era, praising the former defender’s intelligence, adaptability, and influence both on and off the pitch.
Martin, 39, is reportedly on the brink of being confirmed as Rangers’ next head coach following weeks of speculation. He has been a consistent front-runner for the Ibrox job since Philippe Clement’s dismissal earlier this year, and now with the arrival of new sporting director Kevin Thelwell and the 49ers-led takeover spearheaded by Andrew Cavenagh, an official appointment seems imminent.
Martin, who had a short loan spell at Rangers during his playing career, has been out of management since parting ways with Southampton in December. Despite interest in high-profile candidates like Davide Ancelotti—former assistant at Real Madrid—Martin now appears to be in pole position for the role.
Gunn, who played alongside Martin at Norwich City in 2017, spoke highly of his former captain’s leadership, describing him as a natural coach even during his playing days. “You could just tell,” Gunn recalled. “There were players like Russell and Steven Naismith who were already thinking like managers while still on the pitch. Russell was constantly organizing, constantly guiding, and had strong personal relationships with everyone in the dressing room.”
Despite not always being a regular starter at Norwich, Martin’s influence within the squad was undeniable. Gunn credited him with playing a pivotal role in his own development as a young goalkeeper. “He helped me a lot, even though he wasn’t starting every week. He was someone everyone could rely on, always positive and approachable,” Gunn added.
Martin’s managerial stints with Swansea City and Southampton have also left a positive impression. At Swansea, he guided a mid-table squad to perform above expectations in the Championship. At Southampton, he navigated the challenging terrain of post-relegation football, implementing an attacking, possession-based style that evolved over the course of the campaign. Gunn, having played against his Southampton side, noted how the team adapted tactically across the season, shifting from an open approach to a more pragmatic system when needed.
This adaptability, Gunn argues, is a mark of a mature and capable coach. “People say he was inflexible, but watching how he evolved that team showed me otherwise. He can change his system when the game demands it, and he did that well in the Championship.”
Martin’s brief past association with Rangers also gives him an edge, according to Gunn. “He knows the club, understands its culture, and with his experience and philosophy, I think he’d be a really positive appointment for Rangers.”
As the Ibrox faithful await confirmation of the club’s next managerial era, support from voices like Gunn’s only strengthens the case for Martin’s appointment—an intelligent, principled leader ready to restore Rangers to domestic and European prominence.
Alious
