God Save The King guidance issued by SPFL, Rangers response set to follow
The SPFL will not follow the example of the Premier League who have asked clubs to play ‘God Save The King’ this weekend to mark the coronation, as reported by the Glasgow Times.
Instead, Scottish clubs will be able to make their own decision if they wish to mark the historic occasion prior to the upcoming round of fixtures.
Rangers are likely to commemorate the event, following on from the club’s decision to defy UEFA by playing the national anthem before the Champions League clash with Napoli in September, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Details of the expected guidance for Scottish clubs were reported on Monday afternoon.
“Herald and Times Sport understands that the decision will be left to Scottish teams individually to decide whether they will honour the occasion,” stated the report.
“The decision comes after the SFA and SPFL offered clubs multiple options to pay respect to The Queen following her death back in September. Matches across the country were controversially cancelled before clubs were urged to honour the death when play resumed.
“Playing the national anthem before kick-off was suggested or a more traditional minute’s silence was also advised.
“Rangers were the only club in Scotland to play the anthem, with others opting for the moment of reflection.”
Tradition and respect
As a proud Scottish and British institution, it is more than likely that the coronation will be marked accordingly at Ibrox on Sunday, prior to the game against Aberdeen.
The move to defy UEFA [The Sun] was the right one at the time given the circumstances, but just as that call was about doing the right thing, Rangers will soon confirm its own plans to mark the ceremony of King Charles, as permitted by the SPFL.
It will add another element to what will be an intriguing day at Ibrox, in the first of five remaining games that are effectively meaningless.
Players on the fringes of the squad as well as some youth prospects should get their chance from Michael Beale, as certain regulars with no future at the club should make way.
There is nothing further to be learned from the inclusion of the likes of Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos, as much as there is still a requirement to get results, especially in the last Old Firm game of the season.
Injuries will also play a role in team selection over the coming weeks.
In other Rangers news, Neil McCann expresses his disbelief at Rangers ‘Gift’ live on BBC in Scottish Cup loss to Celtic.