Banner by Rangers fans under investigation as an unfurled tifo display featured Graeme Souness holding a shotgun.
Police investigate ‘unacceptable’ Rangers banner shown during draw with Celtic.
Following a police probe into a huge depiction of Graeme Souness brandishing a shotgun, Rangers supporters displayed a “unacceptable” banner, which Scotland’s first minister, John Swinney, denounced.
Before Sunday’s Premiership match against Celtic, a tifo display in the Copland Stand featured former Rangers manager Souness with a double-barreled shotgun and the words “Take aim against the rebel scum” underneath. Following the 1-1 tie, it was one of numerous flashpoints that led to police involvement. According to a representative for Police Scotland, “We are aware of the banner and enquiries are ongoing.”
Mr Swinney continued: “Obviously there was a banner displayed which was unacceptable at the weekend. I don’t think that was an appropriate image. But it’s for the club to reflect on that issue, to address any issues and for the police to make their judgment about that matter as well.”
In the second half, a number of objects, including a glass bottle, were also thrown into Celtic goalie Viljami Sinisalo’s penalty area. A representative for Police Scotland confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are underway.
Rangers said the 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 judgment.
“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.”