CEO Patrick Stewart was thrilled to confirm the appointment of Russell Martin as Rangers’ new head coach at Ibrox on Thursday, insisting the 39-year-old was the standout candidate throughout a ‘rigorous’ recruitment process.
Stewart, speaking to RangersTV, is confident the club has the right man to take the Light Blues forward and that Martin’s ambition and leadership qualities will drive the high standards expected at Auchenhowie while creating a positive culture and winning environment for the players at every level.
He said: “We conducted a really rigorous process and I've been using that word a lot, process, but it is true here.
“The head coach for Rangers or any club is such a pivotal appointment in that they can take a group of individuals and turn them into a winning team, or not.
“It is the most important hire that I think the club makes and Russell came through different stages of the process always as a standout.
“We've been very thorough in terms of understanding the style of play and ensuring that is compatible with the style of football that the club wants to play.
“He's also someone we believe is going to help develop players. Russell talked about players as assets for the club and that's something we really do need to trade on quite literally for the club to elevate itself financially.
“There is a lot in there but ultimately he stood out in every stage of the process and we are really delighted he agreed to join us.”
Stewart believes Martin’s knowledge of both Scottish and English football will prove beneficial in his role as head coach at Rangers.
“100 per cent, definitely,” said the club’s chief executive officer. “Having an understanding of the Scottish game I would say is a key factor because every league is unique and we can look at some of the fixtures that have to be played as part of the SPFL.
“Every ground has its nuances and every club has its nuances, so somebody that comes in with an understanding of that is a huge asset.
“Equally, when it comes to recruiting players having a knowledge of markets outside of Scotland and players outside of Scotland, and off-the-pitch talent outside of Scotland as well, is a huge advantage.
“So yes, I think we are really fortunate to have somebody who has that Scottish background and also English experience as well.
“There is a lot of hard work to be done, just to be clear. I think there always is every pre-season for Rangers because the European qualifiers come so early, so let's not shy away from that.
“That said, we have got Russell in and the transfer window doesn't open for another ten days and the first team don't return for another two weeks, so actually you could look at it glass half full and say we have got him in well in advance of those two key events.
“But let's not kid ourselves, there is a lot of hard work to be done but I know Russell is determined to get stuck into that.
“It feels now though that we are making steps forward and new ownership is a massive step forward.
“My excitement and optimism levels have definitely increased but they were always there because there is so much that is positive about this club.”