Ex-FIFA official blasts Danny Rohl after what he’s said ahead of Celtic vs Rangers showdown
Danny Rohl was out of line with his comments before Rangers’ clash with Celtic, Keith Hackett has said.
Rangers were on the receiving end of a controversial decision the last time the sides met, in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final, and he was keen to avoid a repeat.
Auston Trusty got away with kicking Jack Butland in the head, and was not sent off for the challenge, which helped the Hoops win the contest and progress to the final, where they were beaten 3-1 by St Mirren.
Ahead of the Old Firm clash, Rohl made a request to the referee, who had yet to be appointed by the Scottish FA.
What did Rohl say and why was it so bad?
Rohl asked the referee to be strong for Rangers’ trip to Celtic, perhaps still perturbed by the Trusty decision.
He said: “In this game it’s important that we are strong. I think it’s important that referee is strong in this game as well. If we do this, we will have a fantastic game.”
However, former FIFA-listed referee, Keith Hackett has hit out over the comment, claiming that the Gers boss should avoid putting pressure on the official.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, he said: “Danny Rohl should concentrate on the management of his team and avoid attempting to make statements that reference his requirements of the referee.
“The Scottish ‘Old Firm’ Derby is and would be a challenge for any referee.
“The experienced former FIFA International Referee and now Head of Scottish Referees will want to ensure that the referee for this upcoming game is firm and with great experience.”
Why Rohl will be furious with referee decision from the SFA
Rohl will surely be livid after the SFA announced the referee for the Parkhead contest, which has huge title race implications.
The Gers could go level on points with Wilfried Nancy’s side if they secure victory, but they will not be confident after Steven McLean was named as the man in the middle.
McLean was on VAR duty, with Nick Walsh as the referee for the clash where Trusty walked away without a sending off.
He was also in charge of the October loss to Hearts, and allowed Lawrence Shankland’s strike to stand, despite a potential handball in the build-up.
Willie Collum later admitted that the goal should have been ruled out.
McLean was also involved when the Gers were not awarded a penalty in a 1-0 loss to St Mirren last season, despite a handball incident.
The SFA panel later voted three to two that McLean and the VAR were wrong to not give the spot kick in the Light Blues’ favour.
Therefore, Rohl will not be happy.
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