Rangers head coach Russell Martin spoke with pride after watching his side secure a 2-0 victory over Hibernian that sealed a place in the Scottish League Cup semi-finals. The result came at a time when the manager had been under heavy scrutiny, with fans calling for him to be removed after a poor start to the league campaign. Against Hibs, however, his team produced one of their strongest showings since he took charge in June, and the manager felt it was a step towards the identity he wants to build.

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The quarter-final against Hibernian carried added tension because of a protest from supporters before kick-off, yet the players responded with determination on the pitch. Nico Raskin marked his return to the team with the opening goal before providing an important pass in the build-up to Bojan Miovski’s strike that settled the tie. The Belgian midfielder, who had been absent from the first team picture for a period, was later recognised as the standout performer on the night. Martin described the display overall as the one he had enjoyed most so far, even if he acknowledged that improvements are still required. He highlighted that the side could have scored more as confidence grew, but stressed that the main feeling was pride in how the group handled the circumstances.

The head coach also reflected on the week leading up to the match. He explained how grateful he was for the commitment shown by the squad and backroom staff, emphasising that the collective spirit carried through onto the pitch. With the spotlight firmly on him, the result offered a measure of relief and gave the team belief that they can build on what they produced at Ibrox against Hibernian.

Attention inevitably turned to Raskin’s situation, as the midfielder had been at the centre of debate in recent months. Once an important figure for Rangers, he fell out of favour and was challenged by Martin to regain trust from teammates and staff. The midfielder responded by taking his chance and playing in a role that appeared to suit his strengths. Martin pointed out how Mohamed Diomande’s discipline alongside him gave balance in midfield, which allowed Raskin to influence the game more freely.

The manager also praised several others for stepping up. Thelo Aasgaard delivered what Martin considered his best game since joining, Jayden Meghoma impressed with energy and composure, and Derek Cornelius slotted into the side effectively. John Souttar and James Tavernier gave their usual reliability, with Tavernier adapting to a slightly altered role that benefited young Mikey Moore. Martin urged all of them to treat this performance as a platform for progress.

Discussing the previous difficulties with Raskin, Martin admitted the situation had been disappointing but suggested it might prove useful for the wider culture of the club. He said the episode could help the player grow and encourage the squad to understand expectations more clearly. Contrary to outside speculation, he insisted the relationship between manager and player has always been professional and functional. The coach acknowledged that while Raskin delivered some excellent moments, there is still room for development, and the same applies to the rest of the team.

Martin concluded by expressing pride in his squad, stating that the performance showed signs of what they are trying to achieve. He hoped that the role identified for Raskin would bring out his qualities more consistently, and that the night would serve as a turning point not just for the midfielder but for the team as a whole.