Rangers Coach Russell Martin Eyes New Signings Ahead of Champions League Play-off
Rangers head coach Russell Martin has confirmed the club's interest in Brentford left-back Jayden Meghoma and indicated that new signings are likely before Tuesday's Champions League play-off against Club Brugge.
The 19-year-old England youth international previously worked under Martin at Southampton before moving to Brentford in 2024, followed by a loan spell at Preston last season.
Martin stated that Jefte is likely to depart, and with Ridvan Yilmaz yet to play this season and excluded from the European squad, Meghoma could be brought in on loan to strengthen the left side of defense.
“Jayden is a player we know well from Southampton; he spent a year with us as a young player, training daily, and he understands our work ethic. He is a top talent who represents England at all youth levels,” Martin remarked.
“Brentford signed him for a substantial fee as a teenager, and he performed admirably during his loan in the Championship last year. We like him and hope that he will join Rangers at some point.”
Martin’s squad will face Club Brugge in Glasgow on Tuesday, with the return leg scheduled for Wednesday, August 27. The winner will advance to the league phase.
The Ibrox club has until the day before the first leg to register up to two new players for their European squad, and Martin anticipates that this will occur.
“The team will obviously look very different on Tuesday,” Martin said, having made 10 changes for Saturday’s 4-2 victory over Alloa Athletic in the Premier Sports Cup.
“We are pleased with the players we have, but I believe we will make additions before then.”
Martin Targets League Cup After Integrating New Players
The scoreline against Alloa was tighter than expected, as Rangers dominated the match but missed several clear chances while conceding two avoidable goals, highlighting ongoing defensive issues.
Despite the less-than-perfect performance, Martin found positives in providing opportunities for several new players, including debuts for Tottenham loanee Mikey Moore, Thelo Aasgaard, and Emmanuel Fernandez, who scored Rangers' second goal.
“We scored four goals and could have scored more, but I’m pleased that we got several players on the pitch for the first time,” Martin commented.
“With 10 changes, the performance may not have been as fluid as it could be, but many of these players are now in a better position than they were at the start.”
Martin expressed satisfaction for Emmanuel Fernandez, highlighting his potential and attributes. “It’s a good start for him,” Martin noted.
Having secured a spot in the quarter-finals against either Hibernian or Livingston, Martin emphasized the importance of targeting the League Cup as a viable opportunity for silverware.
“Today was frustrating at times, but we are through, and the players gained valuable minutes. It’s my responsibility to always seek more and demand better,” said the former Scotland defender. “We want to win trophies this season, and this is a great chance for us to do so.”