John Hartson gets in war of words with Sky Sports journalist after Rangers match verdict
John Hartson has gotten into a war of words with Sky Sports journalist Mark Benstead ahead of Rangers versus Dumbarton.
The former Celtic striker issued an angry response after Benstead made a remark about Neil Lennon’s son Gallagher.
The player has joined Dumbarton on loan from St Mirren, and could make his debut for the former against the Gers [official Dumbarton website, 18 January].
“Signing Lenny’s lad ahead of facing Rangers is WWE level stuff,” Benstead wrote on X (18 January), with Hartson responding: “That’s a stupid way to look at it Mark. Gallagher Lennon needs to make his own path in the game. He has a famous dad yes but talk about putting the kid under pressure before he’s even kicked a ball. Very unfair.”
Benstead replied: “It was a joke John… nothing I say puts him under any more or less pressure. I find that a very surprising take. The lad is making his own way in the game, and making a decent fist of it so far.”
Hartson then fired back: “You’re a Sky reporter… I don’t think it comes across as a joke. Your job is to report on the game. Not make jokes about a young lad because of who his dad is.”
Huge opportunity
The upcoming Scottish Cup fourth round clash between Dumbarton and Rangers on Saturday (20 January) is a huge opportunity for Lennon to showcase his talent.
He will already be under pressure if given a start against the Glasgow giants given how he has arrived from Scottish Premiership club St Mirren.
But that pressure has been heightened given that his dad spent several years antagonising Rangers supporters during his time at Celtic, both as a player and as a manager.
But the youngster should not let the pressure get to him, with Dumbarton also in with a great chance of producing a major upset given that they are the home team.
The conditions may just be testing for the travelling side, who have just spent time at a warm-weather training camp.
But Gers manager Philippe Clement has already tasted glory with the club in the form of the League Cup, and he will be eager for more success in this competition.
In other Rangers news, the Gers have made an approach for a new striker, with the player now ready to perform.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.