Ally McCoist slams Lyon ‘shambles’ as Rangers fans lockout lifted
Ally McCoist has hit out at Lyon after the disruption caused to Rangers supporters ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash.
On Tuesday (7 December), Rangers were told the 2,200 tickets they had been given by the French club would not be honoured because of a government ruling [Sky Sports].
This was due to a local festival of light taking place later in the week but a day later (8 December) the lockout was overturned.
But the damage has already been done for many, according to McCoist, speaking via talkSPORT on Thursday (9 December).
He said: “There was a real mix up because Lyon said there were no Rangers fans getting in, a lot of them had bought tickets, and then they changed their minds 48 hours later so it completely messed the Rangers fans about.
“A lot of them going were told they weren’t allowed to go so therefore cancelled, then all of a sudden 48 hours later they were told they could travel.
“It’s a shambles really, to be honest with you.”
Chaos
McCoist is correct – ‘shambles’ is the only word to describe the events of this week.
Rangers supporters have been shown utter contempt by the way in which these decisions have been reached and communicated.
The lack of foresight from the authorities and Lyon has been terrible.
Thankfully, they have now seen the light and Rangers supporters are being granted entry into tonight’s game.
But the damage may have already been done for a lot of fans.
Some may have cancelled flights and accommodation once they were told there would be no admittance for them.
Will they get fairly compensated for that? It seems unlikely.
Hopefully, the majority of supporters are not too affected by the change in plans and can adjust accordingly.
But lessons have to be learned for the future, especially when there is further expense nowadays with the purchasing of COVID tests and the like.
In other Rangers news, this ‘Explosive’ MLS attacker nicknamed ‘Yaya Toure’ has recently been training with the Light Blues.