Since the appointment of Russell Martin as Rangers manager, there’s been growing speculation that Maurice Ross could be part of the new-look backroom team at Ibrox. What started as online whispers has now been echoed by several traditional media outlets — and the prospect of Ross returning to Rangers in a coaching capacity is looking increasingly realistic.
A Coaching Connection Built on Shared Philosophy
While Russell Martin and Maurice Ross have never coached together formally, their footballing philosophies have developed along remarkably similar lines. Both men are strong advocates of possession-based football, shaped by modern European tactical thinking. But it’s not possession for the sake of it — it’s possession with purpose, used to control games, press high, and create openings with intelligence and precision.
The pair favour building from the back, using a high press, and focusing on technical development in young players. These are all key traits Martin displayed during his time at Swansea and Southampton, and Ross has embraced similar ideals in his own coaching journey through Norway and the Faroe Islands.
European Influence, Scottish Insight
Ross’s time coaching at Sogndal (Norway) and Víkingur (Faroe Islands) gave him exposure to progressive footballing environments that contrast with the more traditional British model. Like Martin, Ross has publicly praised European coaching methods and placed emphasis on development, adaptability, and player empowerment.
Maurice Ross explores coaching philosophies on Scottish FA podcast (SFA Website)
It’s this shared outlook that’s believed to have brought the two closer in coaching circles, and it’s why Martin has reportedly earmarked Ross as a key figure who aligns well with his vision at Rangers.
What Role Could Ross Play at Ibrox?
If appointed, Ross is expected to take on a defensive coaching or assistant manager role. His tactical understanding, particularly from a defensive perspective, would complement Martin’s more attack-minded approach. Ross is also experienced in working with younger players and building structured environments, something that would support Rangers’ focus on blending experience with youth.
Most importantly, Ross knows Rangers inside out. As a former player with over 70 appearances for the club, he understands the demands, the standards, and the scrutiny that come with life at Ibrox — a valuable trait when helping a new management team settle into one of the most pressurised roles in British football.
Coaching Style: What Ross Brings to the Table
Ross has spoken candidly in interviews and podcasts about his coaching philosophy, offering genuine insight into how he works:
- Critical Thinking & Mentality: He believes players should be taught to question everything on the pitch — not just follow orders, but understand the “why” behind tactical decisions.
- Player Psychology: Ross values mental strength over raw technique. He stresses the need to listen to players and understand their state of mind.
- Mentorship Approach: On the Open Goal podcast, Ross spoke about using his own playing experiences to guide the next generation — adopting a mentor-style coaching approach that resonates strongly with younger squads.
- Safe Space for Growth: He insists on creating environments where players feel heard, respected, and free to develop without fear of failure.
Is Maurice Ross the Ideal Fit for Russell Martin?
It’s clear that Maurice Ross brings the kind of methodical, reflective, and player-focused qualities that could dovetail perfectly with Russell Martin’s own approach. If the rumours are true, his return to Rangers in a coaching role wouldn’t just be a sentimental appointment — it could be a very smart one.
With Champions League qualifiers fast approaching and a big rebuild underway, Rangers need a backroom staff that’s unified, progressive, and ready to hit the ground running.
Ross could be exactly that.
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