Martin expects to be ‘so pleased’ with next Rangers signings

Russell Martin says Rangers are “at a disadvantage” in their team building because they play so early in Champions League qualifying – but the head coach expects to be “so pleased” with new signings anticipated “in the next week or two”.

The Scottish Premiership runners-up have bought centre-half Emmanuel Fernandez from Peterborough and midfielder Joe Rothwell from Bournemouth, from whom right-back Max Aarons has also been signed on loan.

Midfielder Lyall Cameron’s arrival from Dundee had been arranged before Martin’s appointment this summer.

The former Southampton manager told Rangers TV he is “so pleased” with the close-season additions and said: “The ones we think will be coming into the building in the next week or two, we’ll be so pleased with them and we still need some help.

Rangers, who play Club Brugge in a pre-season friendly on Sunday, start their competitive campaign at home to Panathinaikos in just over two weeks time.

“We’re also at a disadvantage because we play so early in Europe. We are trying to work when everyone else is on holiday,” Martin said.

The former Scotland and Rangers defender outlined his requirements for new arrivals.

“People need to be desperate to play for this club and not just be an option and one of a few options,” Martin explained.

“We have to be ready to win early, but we also need to be in a position to help the whole football club with players who can come here, develop whilst winning, and be good business. Every club has to look at that model. “

Football ability would not be enough to convince Martin a player is right for Rangers.

“Can you come here and add to us as a group in terms of your behaviour, the way you train, the way you work and who you are as a human being, your willingness to play in a way that we want to, which is not for everyone because it’s not easy? ” he added.