Rangers v Celtic: Russell Martin retains support of Rangers board ahead of Old Firm derby

Rangers were humiliated 6-0 by Club Brugge but the head coach retains board backing. With supporters chanting for change and poor league form, punters may lean toward backing Celtic in the Old Firm derby (win or -1 handicap) and expect goals — markets could favour Celtic to score first and Rangers to struggle defensively.

Rangers reeling after 6-0 Brugge drubbing but manager retains board support

A humiliating 6-0 defeat in Belgium has left Rangers under intense scrutiny, yet the head coach reportedly still retains the backing of the Ibrox board. The result deepens concern after a string of poor domestic results and a heavy European exit.

Supporters' backlash at Ibrox and abroad

Supporters chanted for the manager’s removal during and after the game in Bruges, and a banner was left at the gates of Ibrox reading: “Get him out now, before the seats are empty”. Fan unrest has become a visible issue ahead of a crucial Old Firm meeting.

Disastrous start to the season

The coach, who joined as a permanent replacement for Philippe Clement in the summer, has overseen three successive draws in the Premiership. Rangers also suffered a 9-1 aggregate loss in the Champions League play-off, compounding pressure on the squad and coaching staff.

Manager responds after the defeat

Reflecting on the night, the manager said: “It’s probably the toughest night I’ve had as head coach/manager. But it doesn’t change the fact that I think we can get this place going, we can get the team going. And as I said, progress and move forward and grow, and we have an opportunity to really do that, to feel everything tonight that comes our way and accept it, because we have to with a manner of defeat, and then we have a chance to really show some character and some growth and some personality and desire on Sunday.”

Old Firm derby implications and betting outlook

Rangers go into Sunday’s Old Firm derby already six points behind Celtic, placing added significance on the fixture at Ibrox. Given Rangers’ defensive frailties and mounting pressure, betting markets may tilt toward Celtic to win or cover a -1 handicap, with a higher likelihood of early Celtic goals and an open game producing multiple goals.

Match details

Rangers v Celtic kicks off at 12pm on Sunday, August 31, at Ibrox.

The head coach has had a disastrous start with back-to-back draws in the Premiership and a 9-1 aggregate loss in their Champions League play-off.

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