Russell Martin has once again made Rangers’ dire results under him, about him, and rather than apologising to the fan has decried how bad the results are making him look.
Speaking before Rangers host Belgian giants Genk, themselves in horrendous form too, Martin was keen to highlight that he was frustrated and hurt by the results, ‘because they are a reflection of me’.
Narcissism
If nothing else sums up Martin’s narcissism, and how he feels personally about how Rangers are doing under him, it’s that.
Russell Martin wants to succeed. Not because he gives any kind of hoot about Rangers or the fans, but because he wants his CV to look good. He wants to be praised, to be adored, to be told how fantastic he is.
It’s just the latest occasion where this manager has spoken introspectively, not apologising to the fans for results, but speaking of his regret at how those results make him look.
Self interests
This is not a manager who is doing the right things in Rangers’ best interests, but his own.
If Rangers do start, remarkably, winning under him, Russell Martin’s comments and ego will be insufferable.
Rangers have never before had a manager this self-involved. unfortunately, he seems to be able to charm those he speaks to into his favour.
Rangers appear quite happy with their manager, and nothing anyone says or does will change that for the time being.
Silence
The board’s silence deepens the frustration, and fans wonder who actually speaks for Rangers anymore. Supporters demand answers, yet they only hear vague soundbites from a manager obsessed with his image.
Martin could easily begin repairing bridges, but he always chooses the selfish route. A simple admission of failure and a promise to fight harder for the shirt would mean the world.
Instead, Rangers fans endure self-pity and endless excuses, while the players look just as lost. Leadership starts at the top, and when the manager cares more about perception than progress, everything unravels.
Results will inevitably dictate how long this farce continues, but by then the damage may already stand. Rangers risk losing not only matches, but also the connection between club and fanbase that makes Ibrox unique.