Tough Love: Rangers Coach Calls for Champions League Focus

Rangers manager Russell Martin has called for his squad to overcome their "self-preservation" mentality as they gear up for a pivotal Champions League qualifier against Viktoria Plzen this week.

Post-Match Reflections

The Ibrox boss delivered a blunt assessment following Rangers' disappointing draw with Motherwell in their Scottish Premiership opener. Martin emphasized his critique came from a "place of love" and hopes his players will respond positively.

Champions League Challenge

With their third qualifying round tie against Czech side Viktoria Plzen set to be broadcast live on BBC Scotland, Martin highlighted the need for mental toughness:

• Identified "mentality problem" as key issue after Fir Park performance
• Stressed criticism stems from care for player development
• Believes squad must overcome instinct for self-protection under pressure

"If they know me as a person, they know this comes from a place of love and wanting them to be better. We have to change that default to protect yourself when it gets tough."

Squad Expectations

Martin made clear his standards for players representing Rangers:

• Players who can't handle constructive criticism may not be right for the club
• Emphasized need for complete commitment to the Rangers project
• Confident his approach won't negatively impact team morale

Team Updates

Injury concerns continue for Rangers:

• Thelo Aasgaard and Hamza Igamane remain sidelined
• Loan signing Mikey Moore's international clearance still pending

Opponent Analysis

Viktoria Plzen will be without their star player:

• Midfielder Pavel Sulc (Czech league Player of the Season) transferred to Lyon
• Transfer fee: £6.5m initial + £2.2m potential add-ons
• Plzen president acknowledged Sulc's contribution to Champions League progress

The Czech club described the move as part of their strategy to develop players for top European competitions.