John Swinney sends Rangers message after controversy
John Swinney has reacted to the incidents that unfolded as Rangers took on Celtic in the Old Firm derby on Sunday.
The game between the two arch-rivals ended 1-1 at Ibrox, with Barry Ferguson failing to win what could be his last game in charge against the Hoops.
After the contest, he appeared to throw his hat in the ring to get the job on a permanent basis.
Swinney urges Gers to reflect on banner displayed at Ibrox
The Scottish first minister condemned the image of Graeme Souness holding a shotgun.
He labelled it “unacceptable” and called on Rangers to deal with the matter and also for the police to intervene and resolve the issue.
That was also because there were several items, which included a glass bottle, thrown into Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo’s penalty area.
| Scottish Premiership | Played | GD | Points |
| C. Celtic | 35 | +80 | 85 |
| 2. Rangers | 35 | +33 | 68 |
Neraysho Kasanwirjo on the Gers bench also had to step onto the pitch to clear things thrown from the stands.
Swinney said: “That has to be followed by the clubs involved. If there are issues that require the involvement of the police, then the police have to be involved in these issues.
“Obviously, there was a banner displayed which was unacceptable at the weekend.
“These issues have to be addressed by the clubs themselves, but also by the police if they judge it appropriate to do so. And that judgment fundamentally rests with the police in that respect.”
About the image, he said: “I don’t think that was an appropriate image.
“But it’s for the club to reflect on that issue, to address any issues and for the police to make their judgment about that matter as well.”
Rangers may now need to strengthen oversight of fan displays
The display at Ibrox, alongside objects thrown onto the pitch, was unacceptable due to its provocative and potentially threatening nature.
Such imagery and actions foster hostility, undermine the spirit of sportsmanship, and risk inciting violence, tarnishing Rangers’ reputation and the broader football community.
The bottle-throwing incident further endangered players, specifically targeting Celtic’s goalkeeper, and highlighted a failure in maintaining a safe environment.
To prevent future occurrences, Rangers must strengthen oversight of fan displays, as they’ve pledged, by implementing stricter pre-approval processes for tifos and engaging with supporter groups like the Union Bears to enforce responsible behaviour.
Enhanced security measures, including increased surveillance and swift identification of offenders, are crucial.
Collaboration with police for legal accountability, as suggested by Swinney, and maintaining the alcohol ban at matches can deter reckless actions.