Rangers fans hit with stark UEFA reminder as consequences of behaviour during Champions League clash laid bare
Rangers have warned fans to be on their best behaviour against Panathinaikos with UEFA hovering and a suspended stand closure having over the club.
Russell Martin takes charge of his first competitive game and it could hardly be a tougher test at this stage of the season as the greeks visit Ibrox for the first league of the Champions League second round qualifier.
And while access to the lucrative league stage of the competition is on the line, so are full houses at Ibrox in future European nights.
The European governing body slapped Gers with a two-year suspended stand closure and a £25,000 fine earlier this year after a "racist and/or discriminatory" banner was displayed during the epic Europa League victory over Fenerbahce last season.
And the club have implored punters not to give the watching beaks any excuse to shut some of them out of any future Euro nights by locking down the 8000 capacity Copland Road stand.
A statement read: "Across the continent, Ibrox and the Rangers support are renowned for your incredible backing both in noise and in colour, and that backing can again make all the difference against Panathinaikos and beyond.
"Supporters are, however, reminded the club remains under a suspended stand closure sanction.
"That means should there be any repeat of what UEFA deems as 'racist and/or discriminatory behaviour' in any area of the stadium, the Copland Stand will be closed for a future European match.
"That will mean thousands of fellow Rangers supporters will be deprived of the opportunity to attend a potentially key game, while the players on the pitch will lose a significant proportion of that amazing support you provide.
"Discriminatory behaviour includes (but is not limited to) illicit singing, chanting or the displaying of banners.
"Ahead of this match, and indeed the season, the club also reminds supporters the throwing of objects onto the pitch is unacceptable, illegal, and will lead to serious consequences for the club and the potential arrest of the individuals responsible.
"Tuesday's huge match heralds the beginning of a new era for our great club, and another opportunity to show the very best of it to the watching world."
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