Russell Martin spoke of his sadness at seeing young Rangers fans join in the widespread and often vitriolic criticism he is taking from the Gers support.

The former Southampton boss was not a universally popular appointment in the summer and there have been protests against him and chief executive Patrick Stewart due to a terrible start to the season.

The travelling support celebrated Max Aarons’ stoppage-time winner at Livingston on Sunday then immediately turned their ire again on to Martin.

Ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Sturm Graz in Austria, where there will be 1,100 travelling Rangers fans, Martin expressed excitement at “another different challenge, another European night” but lamented some of the fan behaviour he has witnessed.

“I walked straight down the tunnel on Sunday because I wanted the players to enjoy it,” he said.

“I want the players to enjoy it and then people choose to turn their attention to me.

“I just wish at that point they could enjoy their team winning and the lads can enjoy it a bit more rather than having that energy towards me.

“The only other thing I find sad is when I see the kids standing next to their dads and sticking their fingers up at me...