Robertson reinforces anti-racist message
RANGERS managing director Stewart Robertson has told fans unhappy with the club’s anti-racism stance to stay away from Ibrox. Robertson spoke out after Rangers players were forced to defend the decision to take the knee in pre-season wins over Nice and Lyon in France. Taking to social media on Sunday, defender Connor Goldson claimed he and his team-mates had been hurt by the negative reaction of some supporters to the gesture. Alleged online racist slurs directed at striker Alfredo Morelos on Friday are also the subject of a Police Scotland investigation. And Robertson has now issued a statement supporting his players and speaking out on the issue on the club website. ‘Alfredo
Morelos was the victim of racist abuse via social media on Friday evening,’ said Robertson. ‘This hate crime is now subject of a police investigation. This is unacceptable, cannot be tolerated and must be condemned by everyone in Scottish football and society as a whole. ‘Furthermore, as a club, we stand firmly behind our players who have taken a knee prior to recent games. This is a strong stance against racism. We will work tirelessly to protect our players every single day and will not tolerate the abuse or hatred that some have had to endure in recent days.
‘To be clear, if you are unable to support our players, regardless of their background, you are not welcome at Ibrox. Rangers is a club for all.
‘Everyone Anyone, our groundbreaking diversity and inclusion initiative, celebrates its first anniversary on Wednesday.
Recent incidents highlight the importance of our campaign, which we will continue to drive forward.’
The sight of players taking the knee has become a weekly occurrence in English football, a Black Lives Matter badge now adorning the jerseys of clubs down south. And, in an Instagram post on Sunday, central defender Goldson admitted players had been wounded by the backlash from some towards Rangers players taking the knee in France, one responder telling the Englishman he should ‘leave our club ASAP’. Rangers striker Jermain Defoe has also backed the united stance of the players.
CHRIS HUGHTON has held discussions with Bristol City over becoming their next manager. Fans called for the 61-year-old to be appointed after Saturday’s defeat to Swansea City left them 11th in the Championship table. They have been linked with Rangers boss Steven Gerrard, who is not thought to be interested.