Rangers sack head coach Russell Martin after 17 games

Russell Martin has been sacked as Rangers head coach after 17 games, with the club saying "while all transition periods require some time, results have not met expectations".

The 39-year-old's final match was the 1-1 draw at Falkirk on Sunday, following which he was given a police escort away from the stadium after fans tried to stop the team bus leaving.

Martin had faced mounting criticism and protests from Ibrox supporters amid a poor start to the season.

It took Rangers until late September to win in the Scottish Premiership and the club were humiliated 9-1 on aggregate by Club Brugge in the Champions League play-offs in August.

As the domestic season enters its second international break, Rangers are eighth in the Premiership and trail leaders Hearts by 11 points.

Martin, who was appointed on a three-year contract in June by Rangers' new American owners, won just one of his seven league matches, drawing five, and departs with five victories in all competitions.

Assistant Matt Gill and first-team coach Mike Williamson will also exit.

Rangers' statement added: "Russell and his staff have worked exceptionally hard throughout their time at the club. We thank them for their efforts and wish them well for the future.

"Further updates from the club will follow in due course."