DON'T WRITE OFF RUSS

Gunn backing as Gers close in on boss

- KEITH JACKSON

RUSSELL MARTIN is closing in on the Rangers job as fans have been urged not to write him off.

The former Scotland defender has overtaken Davide Ancelotti as the Ibrox front runner amid speculation the Italian is on the brink of withdrawing from the job hunt. Ancelotti was set for a final interview with Rangers' new owners this week but his name is again being strongly linked with Serie A side Como.

Martin was sacked six months ago by Southampton after one win in 16 Premier League games.

Scotland keeper Angus Gunn insists, however, supporters are wrong to dismiss Martin as permanently damaged goods.

Asked if they should look beyond Martin's nightmarish previous campaign, his former Norwich team-mate Gunn said: "Yes, I think so.