You Wouldn’t Believe What Happened’ – Derek Ferguson Lifts Lid on Behind-the-Scenes Drama as Rangers Close In on Russell Martin
‘You Wouldn’t Believe What Happened’ – Derek Ferguson Lifts Lid on Behind the Scenes Drama as Rangers Close In on Russell Martin
In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Rangers faithful, former Ibrox midfielder and popular pundit Derek Ferguson has peeled back the curtain on the dramatic behind the scenes events unfolding as Rangers prepare to appoint Russell Martin as their new head coach.
Speaking on his latest media appearance, Ferguson hinted that the decision to bring in Martin was far from straightforward describing it as “one of the most politically charged and emotionally heated transitions” he’s seen at the club in years. “You wouldn’t believe what happened,” Ferguson said, referencing a flurry of intense meetings, internal disagreements, and even late night interventions from the club’s US based ownership group.
Russell Martin, the 38 year old former Scotland international, is now on the verge of taking over at Ibrox just six months after departing from his role at Southampton. While Martin’s appointment was initially met with cautious optimism, Ferguson’s insight reveals a much more layered and high stakes process behind the scenes.
According to sources close to the situation, tensions flared within the club’s hierarchy during discussions over Martin’s suitability. The club’s newly appointed sporting director, Kevin Thelwell brought in as part of the US consortium’s reshuffle was reportedly a strong advocate for Martin. However, some traditionalist voices within the boardroom were said to be wary of his lack of top-tier managerial success and his abrupt departure from Southampton.
Ferguson, who remains deeply connected to the Rangers inner circle, claimed there were “moments where the deal almost collapsed” and that influential figures had to be convinced to back Martin’s progressive footballing philosophy. “There were real concerns,” he said. “But Thelwell fought his corner hard and the Americans made it clear they want a young, modern coach to fit their vision.”
That vision centers on a complete transformation of Rangers’ footballing structure one built on long term strategy, data driven recruitment, and sustainability. Thelwell, previously with Everton and Wolves, saw Martin as the perfect fit: a coach with a reputation for high pressing, possession based football, and a proven ability to develop young players.
Martin’s style, honed during his spells at MK Dons, Swansea City, and briefly at Southampton, may be music to the ears of the new ownership but Ferguson suggests it’s a gamble. “Russell’s ideas are brave, but they take time,” he warned. “And at Rangers, time is a luxury managers rarely have.”
One particularly dramatic twist, Ferguson revealed, involved a video call between Martin, the Rangers board, and investors from 49ers Enterprises the NFL-aligned backers who now hold a significant stake in the club. “He won them over with his presentation. It was slick, passionate, and full of belief in what Rangers could become.”
Martin’s own history with the club also adds a unique layer to this saga. He spent a brief loan spell at Ibrox in 2018, and sources say he has long dreamed of returning in a managerial capacity. “He gets the pressure. He knows the weight of the badge,” Ferguson noted.
Still, the fanbase remains divided. While some see Martin’s appointment as a bold and necessary move into the modern era, others are skeptical of his inexperience in handling the unique intensity of the Scottish game and particularly, the unrelenting rivalry with Celtic.
Ferguson concluded with a mixture of hope and realism: “This could be a masterstroke or it could blow up if the team doesn’t gel quickly. But one thing’s for sure: what’s happening behind those doors at Ibrox right now is more dramatic than anyone knows.”
As the appointment inches closer, one question remains: can Russell Martin deliver on the promise that sparked so much internal drama and finally guide Rangers back to the top?
