Police investigate ‘unacceptable' Rangers banner shown during draw with Celtic
Scotland's first minister, John Swinney, condemned an 'unacceptable' banner displayed by Rangers fans after police launched an investigation into a giant image of Graeme Souness holding a shotgun.
A tifo display in the Copland Stand before Sunday's Premiership match against Celtic depicted former Rangers manager Souness holding a double-barreled shotgun, with the words 'Take aim against the rebel scum' underneath. It was one of several flashpoints that resulted in police involvement after the 1-1 draw. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'We are aware of the banner and inquiries are ongoing.'
Swinney said it was 'vital' to have respectful behaviour at matches and that the Scottish government would 'reflect' on the display. 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.'
Several items, including a glass bottle, were also thrown into Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo's penalty area in the second half. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'We are aware of the incident and inquiries are ongoing.'
Rangers released a statement at the weekend, condemning the bottle throwing and making clear the club did not approve of the image. It 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 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.'
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Police also confirmed they were studying footage of a Celtic fan at the match who appeared to be mocking the deaths of 66 Rangers fans during the 1971 Ibrox Disaster.
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