Rangers ace Todd Cantwell only has himself to blame as ‘toxic’ claim made
The 4th Official has accused the Scottish media of attempting to make Rangers midfielder Todd Cantwell “toxic for referees” following the reaction to his dive against Aberdeen.
Cantwell threw himself to the ground in an attempt to win a penalty in the 1-1 draw with Aberdeen last weekend in footage that has been widely shared on social media.
Neil Lennon described the dive as “really, really horrendous”, while fellow pundit Tab McManus called for Cantwell to serve a ban for “cheating” [PLZ Soccer].
In fact, McManus doubled down on his anger in an article for the Daily Record on Wednesday [29 November] in which he questioned why players who deliberately try to con officials are not suspended.
In reply to that article, football fan account The 4th Official posted on Twitter [29 November]: “Not going to click on the link but I am willing to bet almost everything I have that Oh [Hyeon-gyu] is not on there.
“As usual MSM have no problem publishing drivel like this. They are trying to make Cantwell toxic for referees just like they did with [Alfredo] Morelos. Same game, different players.”
In all honesty, though, Cantwell has brought this reaction on himself with his actions. Just go back and watch the clip of him going to ground in some of the finest play-acting you will see.
Pundits are right to call him out for his actions, and it is hopefully something he will learn from.
Cantwell was not alone in embarrassing himself last weekend, as Kenneth Vargas and Ester Sokler also did so with their actions.
While there may be a perceived bias when it comes to reporting on Rangers in the mainstream media, on this occasion the negative press is justified.
In other Rangers news, Cantwell could be made to pay when Philippe Clement names his side to face Aris Limassol.