This is certainly not the first time Rangers’ mentality has been questioned. For almost a decade, it has been a frequent criticism from fans and pundits.
Martin, who was sacked a fortnight ago, also chipped in. So, too, did Barry Ferguson during his interim spell last term.
Former Rangers striker Billy Dodds, who was part of Ferguson’s backroom team, told BBC Scotland earlier this week: “There’s no real standout leader, even though there’s the captain, the vice-captain, there’s a leadership group.
“I think the boys have got to get together, but they can only do so much. It’s up to the club’s hierarchy to get the managerial situation sorted out and get a strong figure in there that’s a leader.”
Kevin Muscat is expected to be that man, but Smith would not comment on the Shanghai Port boss’ potential arrival – or his own future.
Regardless, repairing Rangers’ vulnerability poses a significant challenge to whoever is the next permanent head coach.
While Saturday’s first-half display highlighted the potential in this new-look squad, a fragile mentality roots deeper by the week.