Tam McManus reacts to Rangers star Ryan Jack after Scotland fans ‘nonsense’
Tam McManus believes Scotland fans were “bang out of order” for booing Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack before the Euro 2024 qualifier against Cyprus on Saturday (25 March).
Jack, 31, has represented his country on 14 occasions since making his debut in 2017, but this didn’t stop a portion of the Tartan Army – presumed to be Celtic fans – from booing his name when it was read out over the PA prior to the 3-0 win at Hampden Park.
McManus, writing for the Daily Record (Tuesday, 28 March, page 47), admitted that the Gers midfielder shouldn’t have to deal with this kind of “nonsense” from the Tartan Army and that club rivalries should be cast aside when watching Scotland.
He wrote: “The one thing I can’t ever remember having to suffer was being booed by fans who were supposed to be on my own side.
“That’s the nonsense Ryan Jack had to put up with at Hampden on Saturday as his name was read out over the PA before kick-off with Cyprus.
“It was bang out of order from the small section of the Tartan Army who took part. We’re all Scottish and the club rivalries should be left at Hampden’s front door when we turn out to support the national team.”
Petty
The treatment that Jack had to deal with was petty and childish.
If these booing fans were, in fact, Celtic supporters, then it further clarifies some of the issues that the fierce rivalry between the two clubs has created.
McManus is right in calling for club rivalries to be put to bed once arriving through the doors of Hampden Park, and no player should have to deal with a barrage of boos when he is representing his country.
Yes, the Gers and Celtic are fierce rivals, and yes, animosity between the two clubs is expected, but this really is a low blow to Jack.
The Rangers midfielder has represented his country numerous times and once again helped them on their way to the 3-0 win over their inferior opposition on Saturday.
Hopefully, this small section of supporters will learn from their mistakes and right their wrongs when Scotland face Spain on Tuesday evening (28 March).
In other Rangers news, another Ibrox exit may be on the cards after a major revelation last week which could force the clubs to part ways with a senior player.