Ibrox protest: Union Bears demand Russell Martin and Patrick Stewart be sacked

A prominent Rangers supporters group is planning a protest at Ibrox calling for the sacking of head coach Russell Martin and chief executive Patrick Stewart.

Ultras group Union Bears have called for a demonstration at the front gates of the stadium ahead of Saturday’s Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Hibs, following a start to the season under Martin that has left the team sitting tenth in the league table.

Martin has won only three of his 12 games since arriving at the club in the summer. He has also seen the team crash out of Champions League qualifying with a 9-1 aggregate defeat to Club Brugge.

He was booed throughout last weekend’s 2-0 home defeat to Hearts but currently has the backing of the US consortium that bought the club earlier this year.

Fan media and supporters groups are unhappy that he remains in position, and the announcement of an organised protest follows an angry statement from the Union Bears group earlier this week.

It read: “The Union Bears stand with fellow fan groups and the wider support in demanding the immediate removal of the Rangers management team and CEO.

“Russell Martin has shown beyond doubt that he is not capable of leading Rangers Football Club.

“The performances under his management are a disgrace to the standards this club was built on.

“Rangers cannot afford constant upheaval, but in Martin’s case there can be no debate. His failure is absolute, and he must be removed from his duties immediately.

“Patrick Stewart has been quick to criticise supporters, yet has refused to take responsibility for his own catastrophic decision.

“As CEO, the appointment of Russell Martin lies entirely with him.

“This failure proves he is unfit to lead Rangers. His position is untenable, and he must be held accountable.

“The new owners must act quickly and decisively. If they do not, they will leave the support with no option but to act. Rangers must have a management team and a squad capable of delivering success worthy of our history and our support.”

The Rangers Supporters Association has also claimed inaction around Martin is “damaging” the club and urged the club to change head coach as “apathy” sets in.

A social media post read: “The Rangers Supporters Association maintains our position regarding the head coach.

“The continued lack of visible action from the club is deeply concerning, especially in light of poor performances on the pitch and falling ticket sales.

“This inaction is damaging the club rather than helping it.

“We are also aware that our members clubs are being directly affected, with apathy already beginning to set in among supporters.

“The club must act now to resolve this situation and set out a clear strategy for the way forward.”