Derek McInnes and Hearts threaten to punish Rangers again | OneFootball

Rangers overlooking Derek McInnes has created another storm as Hearts arrive at Ibrox this weekend top of the Premiership. The decision to stick with Russell Martin has infuriated fans and raised questions across Scottish football. McInnes now brings a Hearts side bursting with confidence while Martin looks lost. Rangers face a defining match and the mood could not be darker.

McInnes the manager Rangers should have taken

Supporters have not forgotten that Rangers once turned away from Derek McInnes. Many felt insulted when the board dismissed him as lacking pedigree. Now those words haunt the directors. McInnes has taken Hearts to the summit with tactical clarity and belief. He has lifted his squad while Martin flounders with his expensively assembled mess. The contrast could not be clearer. Fans see a leader in Edinburgh while they see confusion in Govan.

Rangers wanted a manager who could deliver attractive football. What they got instead is a man out of his depth. Martin continues to lead Rangers into chaos. McInnes has used discipline and directness to great effect. His Hearts side play with grit and composure. They grind results and they thrill their fans. Rangers do neither. Ibrox is sinking into gloom.

Russell Martin under severe pressure

Martin faces boos, banners and chants of discontent. The players show no structure on the park. Basic defending collapses under the slightest pressure. Possession football fails to create penetration. Set pieces become a lottery. The manager speaks of progress yet results show regression. Supporters have stopped believing. The media has already highlighted Martin’s struggles. Rangers board members face fury.

This weekend could be toxic. Hearts sit top of the table with momentum. Rangers look fragile and nervous. Fans will not accept another limp display. Martin knows a defeat could end him. Glasgow press point to the danger ahead. McInnes will sense the chance to drive the dagger home.

Hearts eye blood at Ibrox

McInnes brings his men to Ibrox relishing the occasion. His players trust him and fight for him. He has given them belief and shape. They defend together and break with intent. National outlets note how fans no longer trust Martin. The energy of Hearts contrasts with the lethargy of Rangers. Supporters know it and fear it.

The narrative writes itself. The man overlooked brings his team to the national stadium of his boyhood dreams. The man chosen instead trembles under the lights. This weekend could be a watershed for the club. Rangers desperately need a response but few expect it. McInnes may leave Ibrox with another win and another nail in Martin’s coffin.

The anger towards the board will intensify if that happens. Rangers face Hearts and the spotlight could not be harsher. The decision to ignore McInnes grows more foolish with every passing week.