# Russell Martin Battling to Save Job as Andrew Cavenagh Spotted at Ibrox This Morning – Barry Ferguson Named as Replacement
**Glasgow, September 25, 2025** – Tension at Ibrox reached boiling point this morning as Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh was spotted arriving at the stadium, fueling speculation that head coach Russell Martin’s tenure hangs by a thread. With the Light Blues languishing in 11th place in the William Hill Scottish Premiership—their worst start since 1978—fan fury has forced the American owner’s hand. Cavenagh, who jetted in from the US to oversee the Europa League opener against Genk tonight, has publicly backed Martin amid mounting protests, but whispers suggest his patience is wearing thin.
Martin’s arrival in June, following the 49ers Enterprises takeover, promised revival after Philippe Clement’s sacking in February. Yet, in just 12 games, the former Southampton boss has overseen zero league wins, a humiliating 2-0 home defeat to Hearts, and a chorus of “sacked in the morning” chants from disillusioned supporters. Protests outside Ibrox before the recent 2-0 Premier Sports Cup victory over Hibernian—ironically attended by Cavenagh—highlighted the unrest, with empty seats signaling a boycott threat that could dent revenues. Pundits have piled on, branding the situation “embarrassing” and urging a boardroom clear-out.
Cavenagh’s unscheduled visit, described as “ominous” by ex-Ranger Alan Hutton, comes after reports of “back-channelling” for replacements. Sources close to the club indicate no formal talks with permanent candidates like Steven Gerrard yet, but an interim solution is imminent if Genk exposes further frailties.
Enter Barry Ferguson, the Rangers legend poised for a dramatic return as interim coach. The 47-year-old, who steadied the ship from February to May after Clement’s exit—guiding the Gers to Europa League quarter-finals and an Old Firm win—has emerged as the frontrunner. Ferguson’s previous stint, alongside Neil McCann, Billy Dodds, and Allan McGregor, delivered six wins in 15 games despite domestic inconsistencies. “Barry knows Ibrox inside out,” said a club insider. “He’s the safe pair of hands to buy time for a full search.”
Ferguson, now a club ambassador after declining other offers, has hinted he’s open to returning: “I’d never rule out going back into management.” Fans, weary of Martin’s possession-based style clashing with Rangers’ DNA, view his recall as a no-brainer. A loss to Genk could seal Martin’s fate by halftime, thrusting Ferguson back into the fray.
For Cavenagh, the stakes are sky-high. Backing Martin was a gamble; now, with mutiny brewing, it’s decision time. Ibrox demands glory, not excuses—will Ferguson be the hero to reignite the fire?
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