After yet another draw in the Scottish Premiership, Rangers are now expected to sign a defensive reinforcement in a last-gasp deadline day deal for Russell Martin.
Rangers set for busy deadline day
Without a win in their first four Scottish Premiership games under Russell Martin after their latest draw against Old Firm rivals Celtic, Rangers are in desperate need of last-minute additions.
The Gers have had a nightmare few weeks under the former Southampton boss, from crashing out of the Champions League to then losing star man Hamza Igamane, but could yet enjoy a turning point if they get deadline day right.
The manager himself, meanwhile, once again chose to remain optimistic after his side’s 0-0 draw against rivals Celtic in what was a poor game between two sides that haven’t been at their true best as of yet this season.
“I am proud of the players for how they responded after the game in midweek. They were fighting for everything. My only disappointment is we didn’t actually win the game.
“We need to build on this. I haven’t felt one change in the owners’ attitude towards me. If anything, I’ve felt more support than ever in the last week.
“Kevin (Thelwell, sporting director), Patrick (Stewart, chief executive), the owners. Andrew (Cavenagh) spoke amazingly well to the players and staff on Saturday on the plan we embarked on just 90 days or so ago.”
Martin is adamant that the 49ers still have faith in his project and that could once again be showcased in the transfer market. With the hours ticking away on deadline day, the American owners are still reportedly eyeing some last-minute deals.
The likes of Youssef Chermiti, for example, are still on Rangers’ radar whilst another deal for a much-needed defensive reinforcement is expected to reach completion.
Rangers expected to sign Cornelius
According to Sky Sports, Rangers are now expected to sign Derek Cornelius from Marseille in a last-minute loan deal. The central defender, who can also play as a left-back, should offer Martin some welcome cover in both areas and potentially the addition that finally helps his side back to winning ways.
As highlighted by the Rangers Journal, Cornelius is particularly one to watch in possession and that should suit Martin’s style of play far more than his current options.
The Marseille man particularly stands out for his progressive passing ability, which is something Rangers have arguably lacked. As much as he is a defensive addition, having a defender who is capable of ending an opposition’s press with one line-breaking pass can quickly turn defence into attack in rapid fashion.
Meanwhile, at 27 years old, Cornelius is not an inexperienced option like Rangers have already signed this summer. He should be able to hit the ground running from the off at Ibrox.