Ibrox chief hits out at racist abuse of Morelos

RANGERS: Robertson issues warning to fans as he backs players ‘taking a knee’

Stewart Robertson hit out at the racist abuse directed at Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos while sending out a strong message to any fans unhappy with the club’s anti-racism stance.

Police Scotland have opened an investigation after Colombia international Morelos suffered racist abuse on social media, and in a statement, the Ibrox club’s managing director described the incident as “unacceptable”.

Robertson also addressed some of the reaction to the Govan side’s decision to take a knee in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement before Veolia Trophy wins over Lyon and Nice in France.

Defender Connor Goldson insists Gers players were left hurting by comments on social media from those who opposed the show of solidarity.

Robertson said: “Alfredo Morelos was the victim of racist abuse via social media on Friday evening.

“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.”

Young defender Nathan Patterson believes Rangers’ French foray has set him up for the upcoming campaign in Scotland.

The 18-year-old defender came off the bench twice as Steven Gerrard’s side captured the Veolia Trophy.

As Light Blue preparations continue for the start of the Premiership season on August 1, Patterson, who came through the Rangers academy, told the club’s official website that the experience in France added to his education.

“It has been great and I am delighted to be a part of the squad and to train with top, experienced players,” said the full-back, who made his competitive Rangers debut in a William Hill Scottish Cup win over Stranraer at Ibrox in January.

“I have been exposed to the first team quite a bit now having trained with them quite a bit last year.

“So I’m used to it, but it’s a big step up in terms of physicality and all departments really.”

Picture: SNS Group. Police Scotland are investigating after Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos was allegedly racially abused online.