The Old Firm derby faces an unprecedentedly bizarre backdrop dating back to May 1888 and over 400 matches. Glasgow football often creates opposing satisfaction and dismay among Celtic and Rangers supporters. Widespread collective outrage surrounds both clubs heading into the Ibrox match. Managers Russell Martin and Brendan Rodgers appear incompatible with their clubs. Victory for either side would only briefly silence dissenting voices. Both clubs suffered embarrassing European results this week. Rangers' appointment of Martin is viewed as an error after the disorganised shambles of a 6-0 loss to Club Brugge that exposed defensive failings and an unconvincing signing policy. Celtic's scenario is more complex and bewildering.
The yin-and-yang nature of football in Glasgow means supporters of Celtic must be happy because those following Rangers feel dismay, or vice versa. Very occasionally there is general contentment, as in recent times when Rangers could draw kudos from European progress to offset domestic disappointment. As the sides head for Ibrox on Sunday there is outrage. Widespread, collective outrage. In Russell Martin and Brendan Rodgers, we have managers who do not feel compatible with their clubs.
Rangers simply appear to have erred in the appointment of Martin. He had very little leeway with the Rangers support from the outset and the disorganised shambles that was the 6-0 loss to Club Brugge on Wednesday further inflamed opinion. Rangers were lucky to escape with that level of defeat. Much is said of Martin's philosophy but a manager who cannot implement basic defensive principles can have no excuses.
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