Russell Martin addresses angry Rangers crowd reaction to ex-Norwich City star’s substitution in Dundee draw
Rangers manager Russell Martin has moved to explain his decision to substitute former Norwich City midfielder Kenny McLean during Saturday’s frustrating 1-1 draw with Dundee at Ibrox — a move that sparked an audible backlash from sections of the home support.
The Ibrox faithful, already agitated by a lacklustre display, made their feelings clear when McLean was withdrawn midway through the second half. Loud boos and shouts of disapproval rang out as the 32-year-old, who joined Rangers from Norwich earlier this summer, made his way to the touchline.
“I understand the reaction” – Martin
Speaking after the match, Martin acknowledged the supporters’ frustration but insisted the decision was tactical rather than performance-based.
“I completely understand the reaction from the fans,” the Rangers boss said. “Kenny’s a fantastic player and someone I’ve worked with before. The substitution wasn’t a reflection on how he played — it was purely about trying to change the dynamic of the game. We needed more pace and direct running between the lines, and I felt it was the right time to make the switch.”
McLean, who enjoyed a successful spell under Martin’s management at Norwich, was handed his first league start for Rangers in the Dundee clash. Operating in a deep-lying midfield role, he displayed his usual composure in possession but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a stubborn Dundee side.
Frustrating afternoon at Ibrox
The match itself proved to be another testing afternoon for the Light Blues. Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, Rangers struggled to break down Dundee’s compact defensive structure. The visitors took a shock lead in the first half through Luke McCowan, whose curling effort from the edge of the box left goalkeeper Jack Butland with no chance.
Rangers equalised shortly after the restart when Abdallah Sima tapped home from close range, but the hosts failed to find a winner despite heavy pressure in the closing stages. The result leaves Rangers trailing early pacesetters Celtic by two points, increasing the pressure ahead of their Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos next week.
Martin calls for patience
While Martin admitted the performance was far from perfect, he urged fans to show patience as his new-look squad continues to gel.
“We’ve made a lot of changes in a short space of time,” he said. “It’s going to take a bit of time for everything to click, but I have no doubt the players are giving everything. Kenny [McLean] is going to be a big player for us this season. I don’t want anyone reading too much into today’s substitution — he’ll be right back in the thick of it.”
Looking ahead
Rangers will now turn their attention to European action, with Martin expected to rotate his squad in midweek to keep players fresh. McLean’s experience in high-pressure games is likely to see him play a key role as the club aims to secure Champions League football.
Despite the weekend’s frustrations, Martin remains confident that results — and performances — will improve once his players fully adapt to his tactical demands.
