Rangers condemn 'unacceptable' shotgun tifo display shown before Old Firm derby

Rangers have condemned an 'unacceptable' shotgun tifo display which was shown before Sunday's Old Firm derby against Celtic at Ibrox.

Prior to the match a banner was unfurled in the Stands depicting ex-Rangers player and manager Graeme Souness holding a shotgun, with the words “Take aim against the rebel scum” written underneath.

The tifo was based on a real image of Souness holding a shotgun, an image that was taken during the 1982 World Cup when Souness was in camp with Scotland.

During the game, there was also an incident where a glass bottle was thrown into Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo’s penalty area during the 1-1 draw.

A Rangers spokesperson said: “Rangers Football Club condemns the actions of the individual who threw a bottle during today’s match. This behaviour has no place at our stadium. Steps have already been taken to identify the person responsible, and the club will take the strongest possible action once their identity is confirmed.

“We also acknowledge that the tifo displayed prior to kick-off crossed a line and was unacceptable. Our approach to supporter displays has always been built on trust, with the responsibility placed on groups to exercise good judgement.

“We will reflect on how these displays are managed and engage with supporter groups to ensure the right balance of trust, responsibility and oversight is maintained moving forward.

“Rangers is proud of its passionate fanbase, and we all share a duty to protect the standards and reputation of our club.”

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