(Image: Bruce White/Colorsport / Shutterstock)
(Image: Bruce White/Colorsport / Shutterstock)
Russell Martin was once spoken highly of by Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox.
The former Rangers boss was considered by Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag in 2024.
Wilcox, who had worked with Martin at Southampton, thought the former Scotland international was a manager to watch for the future, according to The Athletic.
However, at that time, Martin was not seen as a realistic candidate for the United job due to his lack of top-level experience. Wilcox was impressed by Martin's character, tactical understanding, and commitment to possession-based football.
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This revelation provides an intriguing insight into how highly Martin was regarded before his move to Rangers.
He took charge of Rangers, but his spell at Ibrox only lasted 123 days. This was another setback in Martin's managerial career after his stint with Southampton ended in relegation from the Premier League.
Wilcox had appointed him at Southampton in 2023 and supported him through a challenging start.
This backing was rewarded as the club went on a club-record 25-match unbeaten run and achieved promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs.