Shock Odds as Russell Martin Becomes Rangers’ Favourite | OneFootball

Russell Martin has sensationally emerged as the odds-on favourite to take the vacant Rangers managerial hotseat, according to the latest data from Betfair. Priced at 8/11, the Southampton boss has now overtaken previous frontrunner Davide Ancelotti, who’s been nudged out to 1/1 — still a strong contender but now second favourite in what’s becoming an increasingly competitive field.

Martin’s rise in the market will spark huge debate among Rangers fans. The current Saints boss led them to the Championship play-offs in England and has cultivated a reputation for progressive, possession-based football. But whether that’s what Rangers need right now is a whole other question. The fanbase is torn — some see him as a young, modern manager with a high ceiling, while others view him as an underwhelming choice lacking in experience at the highest level. And that’s not even mentioning the optics of appointing a Celtic-supporting former Scotland international.

Behind Ancelotti, Francesco Farioli is a curious name at 10/1. A tactical purist and somewhat of a hipster pick, he’s been linked before — but this feels like a stretch unless Ibrox chiefs are truly embracing left-field continental vision. Marco Rose, the ex-Dortmund and Leipzig boss, sits at 16/1 alongside the ever-present Steven Gerrard, who looks unlikely to return but can never be fully ruled out. Danny Röhl and Frank Lampard trail behind at 22/1 and 25/1 respectively — both being touted as outsider options with clear downsides and question marks over suitability.

Also in the mix, albeit long shots at 33/1, are Rob Edwards, Gary O’Neil and former Rangers link Kevin Muscat. Each brings their own credentials, but the reality is this race is rapidly becoming a two-horse affair between Martin and Ancelotti.

Of course, Ibrox Noise readers know full well the boardroom dynamics will dictate everything. With Rangers’ managerial hunt descending into chaos, and transfer strategies already a major concern, the choice of manager is now more critical than ever.

And let’s not forget, with the takeover confirmed, the pressure is on to appoint a boss who can deliver both silverware and style.

The full odds list can be credited to Betfair, who now have Russell Martin at the top of the pile — and the odds say it all.