Rangers react to ‘appalling’ tweets after SFA fine

RANGERS have acknowledged the “appalling nature” of social media comments from St Mirren chairman John Needham.

Having been charged at the beginning of November following an investigation into historic posts on his Twitter account, yesterday an independent disciplinary panel at the SFA fined Needham over the incident.

The tribunal has determined that £5000 must be paid up right now, with a further £1000 suspended until the end of the season. Rangers wrote to St Mirren, the SPFL and the SFA about the comments after Needham’s appointment in the summer and have now responded to the punishment handed down from Hampden.

A Rangers spokesperson commented: “Rangers notes the SFA have recognised the appalling nature of these comments which are not befitting of a person in football leadership.

“We are acutely aware that Mr Needham’s comments are not reflective of the wider board or staff of St Mirren.”

In October, Needham apologised for his actions and said: “On Friday 22 October a number of Tweets I created in the past referring to Rangers fans were highlighted on Twitter.

“As a club chairman I have extra responsibility for the conduct and example I show.

“These posts are completely inappropriate and do not reflect my character or beliefs as a person and I very much regret them.

“I apologise unreservedly to the directors and fans of Rangers and to everyone at St Mirren. I am acutely aware of my responsibilities. This won’t happen again.”

St Mirren confirmed the fines in a short statement on their website on Thursday afternoon.

It reads: “Following on from the SFA disciplinary hearing for John Needham, the outcome is as follows: £6000 fine applied with £5000 to be paid immediately and £1000 suspended until the end of Season 2021/22, should there be a further breach of Disciplinary Rules 71/73/77 in this time period. St Mirren Football Club will be making no further comment.”