Djeidi Gassama behind-closed-doors footage causes surprise, 'player risked suspension'

Rangers fans will feel like referees have started as they mean to go on amid footage from the friendly against Johor Darul Ta'zim.

Djeidi Gassama was involved in a contentious issue early on in Thursday's behind-closed-doors contest.

Sharing his views exclusively with Ibrox News, former FIFA referee Keith Hackett admitted to being surprised by the outcome.

Rangers drew the contest 2-2 in their first match in Spain, where Derek McInnes' men are basing themselves for warm-weather training.

Tochi Chukwuani was on target twice in La Nucia against the Malaysian Super League champions, but the Gers could not find the win.

While it may not matter a great deal in terms of the grand scheme of things, Rangers can feel hard done by following an early decision that did not go their way.

Keith Hackett reacts to Djeidi Gassama incident in Rangers draw

Gassama was picked out by Findlay Curtis down the left-hand side with the scores still 0-0 in the friendly.

The left-winger drove towards the box and got in front of his man, who clearly made contact as he tried to win the ball.

Gassama went to ground and was surprised the referee did not point to the spot - a verdict Hackett agrees with.

"The challenge on Gassama was careless and therefore it should have resulted in a penalty kick and also a red card," Hackett said.

"If they are abiding by the same rules as in England and Scotland, referees are instructed that the Laws of the Game must be enforced and players are at risk of suspension."

Gassama may be his own worst enemy

While Gassama did appear to be fouled in this instance, there have been more than a few occasions that has not been the case.

The wideman has been penalised for trying to con officials and he needs to be careful.

Players with a reputation of trying to buy penalties and free-kicks can often see calls then go against them.

If nothing else, Gers fans will just be hopeful any bad refereeing decisions are out of the system before the real business begins.