Russell Martin has insisted that the outcome of Rangers' crucial Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos will not define his first season as manager, but admitted the tie is vital for winning over sceptical supporters. The former Gers defender takes charge of his first competitive match on Tuesday night, with a potential £40 million windfall at stake for reaching the group stage.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Martin acknowledged the game comes earlier than he would have liked, having been in the job for less than 50 days. 'It's not going to be a season-defining game,' he said. 'A season is a long season. It will be defined by what we do between now and May.' He added that the squad will look 'very different in four or five weeks' and that the focus is on delivering a performance that reflects their style of play.
The tie will determine whether Rangers advance to face Viktoria Plzen or Servette, or drop into the Europa League against Besiktas or Shakhtar Donetsk. Martin hopes the match gives fans something to get excited about after a lukewarm reception to his appointment. 'Whatever happens, the plan is to win it and build from there,' he said. 'It will not define us, but it is important.'
Martin confirmed that Danilo will lead the line after scoring four goals in pre-season, while new signings Cyriel Dessers, Hamza Igamane, and Djeidi Gassama will start on the bench due to late arrivals. Thelo Aasgaard is an injury concern after picking up a knock. Martin praised Danilo's technical ability and work ethic, saying he hopes the Brazilian can carry his pre-season form into the competitive campaign.
