Russell Martin is safe from the sack at Rangers even if his side exit Champions League qualifying and suffer defeat to arch-Glasgow rivals Celtic.
That's the view of former Gers, Killie and Scotland striker Kris Boyd.
He insists that there's no shame in his old club exiting UEFA's top club competition at the hands of Club Brugge.
The second leg of the play-off tie takes place tonight, with the Belgians 3-1 up after dominating proceedings at Ibrox.
Should Martin's men be unable to turn that tie around, then they will drop into the league phase of the Europa League.
It's then immediately onto the small matter of the derby against Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday.
Defeat would see the Hoops go 10 points clear of Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premiership table - a gap which is clearly too big for this early stage of the season.
But Boydy believes Rangers' new American ownership will give Martin time to bring in more of his own players, and implement his own coaching ideas.
“There’s no disgrace in losing to Club Brugge in the Champions League; they have performed well in Europe over the past few years," the 42-year-old exclusively told Best New Bingo Sites. "However, what is concerning is the manner in which they lost to them last week. That opening 20 minutes at Ibrox in the first leg was unacceptable. “They have to go and correct that in the second leg, even if they don’t win, they have to give a good account of themselves. They must show the fans that there is improvement there, and if they get themselves back into the game, then brilliant.
"Rangers have the safety net of the Europa League there, and to be honest, that is about their level at the moment.
Read more:
-
Rangers hold talks over Bojan Miovski transfer with Hamza Igamane heads to Lille
-
Ex-Rangers ace Ryan Jack could return to Scotland as SPFL club 'swoop'
“The financial side of the Champions League would certainly help accelerate the rebuild process for us, but unfortunately, sometimes you have to walk before you can run.
"Right now, it’s baby steps for Rangers, starting with improved performances on the pitch, a few new signings and beating Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday.
"But even if they lose on Sunday, I don't see them sacking Russell.
"I think he will get more time to bring in players, work with the squad, and implement his style before the club considers sacking him."
