I WAS SAVED BY THE BELL

RUSSELL MARTIN will never forget his final day as a player at Rangers Training Centre seven years ago.

- BY FRASER WILSON

Alone in the jacuzzi, with only his thoughts about a loan spell which was ending in bitter frustration, for company.

That was until Jimmy Bell burst in.

Armed with a bottle of whisky, two plastic tumblers and his unrivalled stories that made the late, great kitman one of the most loved and respected characters at Ibrox for generations.

The conversation certainly lifted the then 33-year-old’s spirits.

But it also left Martin with a clear appreciation of the standards that had once driven the club. No half measures.

He heard all about the glory days under Walter Smith (inset, with Bell), Graeme Souness and other iconic Ibrox bosses.

Now, seven years on, he has been entrusted with the job of walking in their shoes.