Rangers’ Russell Martin is only winner in one of worst Old Firm derbies

Martin’s side’s only win in their last seven games is that League Cup last-16 victory over Alloa – and even in that they conceded twice.

Their four-game winless start in the Premiership this season marks their worst introduction to a league campaign since 1983.

Including their draw away to Hibernian on the final day of last term, their current five-game run without a victory in the league is their worst in the Premiership era (since at least 2013-14).

But, despite all of that, there are crumbs of optimism for Martin to feast on over the course of the upcoming international break.

Another defeat would have turned Ibrox toxic on Sunday and, with the Rangers hierarchy in attendance, it would have become increasingly difficult for them to ignore the fan fury that would have inevitably followed.

Martin took a more organised and disciplined approach, which ultimately earned him a first Premiership clean sheet.

“I’m disappointed we didn’t win because I felt we were good for large parts,” the Rangers boss added.

“But I’m really proud of the players’ level of fight, desire, aggression, all things we questioned inside and outside of the building.

“That was a big focus today, to really fight and show some togetherness and spirit and aggression, and there was so much of that.

“It’s an important clean sheet, an important point. We’re six points off top, which is frustrating for us, but it gives us something to hunt.”

To get on the hunt, Martin will need to massively improve his start of just three wins in 11 games – and quickly.

The Ibrox boss faces a stern schedule, with back-to-back games against Heart of Midlothian and Hibs to come before a Europa League opener with Genk, but Sunday’s draw has alleviated some mounting pressure.