Russell Martin has addressed rumours linking him to the permanent manager position at Rangers. The ex-Ibrox defender was let go by Southampton after just 16 Premier League matches, despite guiding them back to the top tier of English football via the Championship playoffs last summer. Despite only securing five points before his departure from St Mary's, the team hasn't fared much better under Ivan Juric, gaining just four additional points and heading towards the worst-ever points tally in Premier League history.
However, Martin's reputation remains intact due to his possession-based football philosophy, which led to Southampton's promotion less than a year ago following successful spells at MK Dons and Swansea City. This has led to speculation about him becoming the next permanent manager at Rangers. Barry Ferguson is currently holding the fort as interim manager until the season's end, trying to boost morale after Philippe Clement's disastrous reign.
Reports have suggested that influential figures within the boardroom are considering a summer move for Martin, especially with the Scottish Premiership on the brink of a US consortium takeover.
During an appearance on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football, following Newcastle United's narrow 1-0 triumph over West Ham, Martin found himself at the centre of a direct inquiry regarding his future in the sport and the possibility of a move to Scotland. Martin replied: "I think I am realistic. I don't think I will get another Premier League chance right now.
"I think like most managers that come up from the Championship - 'not quite good enough for the Premier League'. It's maybe unfair on the manager's that get there at times, because you are there with a squad that has been so successful the year before but isn't quite ready for the Premier League.
He observed that there are only a couple of instances where managers have successfully transitioned from the Championship to the Premier League: Nathan Jones and Graham Potter, emphasising that most others face significant challenges in making this leap and sustaining success.
Regarding his own future, Martin remained open-minded but resolute: "I really don't know (where is next). I am open to working abroad, in England again - I want to work back in the Premier League now I have got a taste of it."
When questioned about potentially altering his managerial style in his next role, particularly in light of criticisms levelled at his approach during his tenure at Southampton, Martin quipped: "I think we will play a bit more direct, maybe. We want 100 per cent (possession)."
This story originally appeared on the Daily Record