Rangers head coach Russell Martin has insisted the tie against Club Brugge remains very much alive as his side prepare for the second leg in Belgium. After a 3-1 defeat at Ibrox last week, Martin believes his team can overturn the deficit and will rely on energy and mentality to shape the tie in their favor.
In the pre-match press conference, Martin said he’s excited by the challenge and that Rangers have a real chance to attack Brugge. He noted that every team will have a plan and expects Brugge to try and extend their lead, but argued his players must quickly adjust and disrupt the opposition’s approach with their energy.
Brugge, he added, are a strong side, and he felt Rangers showed positive signs in the second half of the first leg. He hopes those moments can be replicated to give Brugge reason to fear what’s coming.
We are ready, Martin said. We’re going to attack and see where it takes us, and the tie is very much alive in our eyes.
Asked what a big result could do for the squad, Martin said a win would settle the players and provide tangible proof that their hard work is paying off, even if league results have been frustrating recently. He stressed that the club’s work ethic and pursuit of consistency and rhythm remain unchanged, with energy being the key ingredient that must be maintained.
Martin also touched on the relationship with supporters, describing an unwritten contract between players, the team and the fans. He argued the team must dictate the energy of the crowd and acknowledged some fans will be unhappy with the current run of results. Yet he remained calm, insisting that energy and reaction can improve and that the best days are ahead when the team is in flow.
What to watch:
– Rangers’ intent to attack the second leg and overturn the deficit
– How the squad manages energy and momentum to disrupt Brugge’s plan
– The dynamic between players and supporters and how the team channels that energy on match night
Summary:
Rangers travel to Belgium with the tie still very much open, anchored by Russell Martin’s belief in energy, mentality, and a proactive approach to secure a positive result. The club aims to deliver a performance that restores confidence and turns momentum in its favor.
Additional note:
If you’re looking for a hopeful take, this setup emphasizes resilience and a clear plan to turn around a challenging first leg. The focus on energy and the “unwritten contract” with supporters underscores a narrative of unity and renewed purpose as Rangers chase a big result abroad.