Graeme Souness: Don't fall for Nigel Farage – he is a chancer
Graeme Souness has branded Nigel Farage a 'chancer' who 'doesn't care' about Scotland in the build-up to a by-election in which the country could elect a Reform MSP for the first time.
Liverpool and Rangers legend Souness also accused the party's leader of being someone who vanished 'when it matters' amid a bitter battle for a seat representing Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse at Holyrood.
Souness, now an outspoken pundit, joined fellow football icon Sir Alex Ferguson in urging voters to choose Labour's Davy Russell over Ross Lambie, who is standing for Reform in Thursday's poll after defecting from the Conservatives.
Souness told the Daily Record: 'Don't fall for Farage, he's a chancer – all talk, and he doesn't care about us. He'll show up for the cameras, then disappear when it matters.
'Davy Russell is different. He's one of your own, a local man that knows what it's like to graft, to face challenges head-on, and to stand up for his community. Vote for someone who knows you and will stand up for you – Davy Russell.'
Scotland has never elected a Reform MSP, although Michelle Ballantyne became its leader in Holyrood after joining from the Tories before being voted out four years ago.
After making huge gains in last month's elections in England, Farage's party is locked in a three-way race with Labour and the SNP for a seat held by the latter until the death of Christina McKelvie in March forced a by-election. Souness's endorsement of Russell came almost a month after the latter received the backing of former Manchester United manager Ferguson.
'I've known Davy Russell for years, and I can say without hesitation that he's a man of integrity, determination, and deep commitment to his community,' Ferguson said.
'He's from here, he understands the people, and he never forgets where he comes from. Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse need someone who'll fight their corner – and Davy is that person. I'm proud to support him and know he'll work tirelessly for the place he calls home.'
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar welcomed Souness's endorsement, saying: 'I'd like to thank Graeme Souness for his support. He couldn't be more right, Nigel Farage is a dangerous clown and the people of Scotland see right through him.'
Farage visited Scotland on Monday, days after a row over an online video put out by his party that falsely claimed Sarwar had said he would 'prioritise' the Pakistani community.
Sarwar branded the advert 'blatantly racist', prompting Farage to accuse him of introducing sectarianism into Scottish politics.
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