YOU'VE GOT TO RUSSELL UP A WIN NOW

Boss needs to knock Hibs out, reach the cup semi, and start getting fans back on his side

- BARRY FERGUSON

I'D love to sit here and say that everything's going to be alright.

There's nothing I would rather be writing about this morning than how the future still looks bright for Russell Martin and Rangers.

And why the supporters need to keep the faith and stick with the manager and the team for the long haul.

But I can't.

Unfortunately, the fans won't listen to me or to anyone else right now. They have made their minds up and there's nothing anyone can say to change that.

But there is something that Russell and the players can do about it.

And that's to make sure they come off the pitch at Ibrox tomorrow with their name in the hat for the semifinal of the Premier Sports Cup.

It really is that simple. Beat Hibs, knock them out of the last eight and — at the very least - give yourselves a chance of steadying the ship and getting these fans back on your side.

There's no point in kidding yourselves on and hoping that the atmosphere is suddenly going to turn around after the reaction to last week's defeat at home to Hearts. It won't.

Russell is a smart guy and he'll know exactly what to expect this weekend.

He’s going to be walking back into a hostile environment and there will still be a lot of anger in the air.

That's what happens when you let the Rangers support down. It’s the responsibility that you take on when you represent the club.

I've been there myself too many times to mention and I know how difficult it can be.

Also, after my short time in the dugout last season, I know how it feels to be the man carrying the can when things don't go the way you want them to on the pitch.

I heard the shouts from the stands. I knew that these guys were hurting.