Following a difficult start to life at Rangers, Russell Martin now reportedly faces the threat of losing one of his most influential players amid regular contact from an interested club.

Martin tells Rangers to "seize" Club Brugge chance

Martin would have been the most relieved man in Glasgow when his side got over the line against Scottish League One side Alloa Athletic in the Scottish League Cup. Despite securing a 4-2 victory, the Gers were once again forced into a frantic affair and were found wanting defensively as they allowed their underdog opponents back into the game on two occasions.

Now, arguably the toughest game of Rangers’ season so far awaits. Set to square off against Club Brugge in their latest Champions League qualifier, Martin urged his side to “seize” their opportunity against their Belgian opposition and to play “with a bit more joy” this evening.

“I spoke to the players this week about they have to enjoy, they have to play with a bit more joy here at Ibrox because it can be so special and so brilliant, and there’s still a bit of tension at times and all that stuff.

“Our job is to give them enough clarity and consistency that they can actually enjoy playing for this football club and enjoy moments like that. It should be one of the best opportunities and times of your career.

“Of course, it can be tough at times and all that stuff, but seize the opportunity that you have whilst you’re here. There’s not been enough like real moments of enjoying what they’re doing. So it’s our job to make sure we do that and, if we play like that with that energy, then I think the fans will enjoy it as well.”

Qualifying for the Champions League could be the major turning point that Martin so desperately needs in the early days of his tenure and it could also help keep hold of one star player.

AEK Athens in regular contact to sign Dessers

Despite reports emerging that a deal broke down between AEK Athens and Rangers to sign Cyriel Dessers earlier this summer, it now seems as though the Greek giants have reignited their interest. According to TeamTalk, AEK Athens have been in regular contact to sign Dessers, despite Martin being desperate to keep him in Glasgow.

The forward’s exit would be the most frustrating twist of the summer for those at Ibrox and Dessers himself is reportedly open to the move before the transfer window slams shut.

Earning praise from Martin for the “brilliant” job that he did in a 3-0 win against Viktoria Plzen earlier this season, Dessers remains an important player at Ibrox despite previous criticism.

After scoring 29 goals and assisting seven more in all competitions last season, it should come as no surprise that Martin is keen to keep hold of Dessers in the remaining weeks of the window. Whether Rangers manage to do so may be another question entirely, however.