By JOHN MCGARRY

Published: 19:46, 1 October 2025 | Updated: 19:47, 1 October 2025

In the cafes and restaurants dotted around Graz’s picturesque main square, they’re firing up the giant gas heaters to allow the locals to continue dining al fresco of an evening. At the start of October, there’s a nip in the air.

Situated a 15-minute walk from the Hauptplatz, the atmosphere within the Merkur Arena on Thursday evening will also be frosty.

Whether taking charge of Rangers at Ibrox or on the road these days, Russell Martin’s relationship with the club’s supporters could generously be described as strained.

At Almondvale on Sunday, a rare moment of triumph for the embattled manager encapsulated exactly where he’s at right now.

Livingston had hardly re-spotted the ball in the centre circle following Max Aarons’ injury-time goal when three sides of the stadium ceased celebrating and resumed their call for the manager to immediately take his leave.

If there’s been a boss at any club in history with a lower popularity rating among his own support than the 39-year-old has right now, then...