Rangers have parted ways with head coach Russell Martin after a dismal start to the season, Afrosport reports.
The 39-year-old has been dismissed after just 17 games in charge as Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Falkirk left the team eighth in the Scottish Premiership standings, 11 points behind leaders Hearts.
Martin, who needed a police escort after the game as angry fans confronted the team bus, was appointed by Rangers in June. He signed a three-year contract and has since come under increasing pressure from supporters following a disappointing start to the season.
Rangers were knocked out of the Champions League by Club Brugge with a 9-1 aggregate defeat in August and only managed their first Scottish Premiership win in late September.
A club statement read: “Rangers Football Club confirms that it has parted company with Head Coach, Russell Martin. While all transition periods require some time, results have not met the club’s expectations.”
The former Southampton boss managed only five wins at the Ibrox Stadium, including just one in seven league matches. Rangers have also begun their Europa League campaign with back-to-back defeats to Genk and Sturm Graz.
The club also confirmed that assistant head coach Matt Gill and first-team coach Mike Williamson are also leaving their respective roles.
“Russell and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at the club,” the club said. “We thank them for their efforts and wish them well for the future.
“Further updates from the club will follow in due course.”
