Gerrard says concerns over Beaton have been ‘passed on’

STEVEN GERRARD has expressed his concerns over John Beaton’s handling of Rangers’ win over Livingston after accepting a one-match suspension for confronting the referee on Wednesday evening.

Gerrard was sent to the stands after receiving two quick-fire yellow cards from Beaton following an angry confrontation at half-time of the 1-0 victory at the Tony Macaroni Arena.

Rangers were left incensed that Beaton booked Alfredo Morelos for simulation when he went down under a challenge from keeper Max Stryjek as Gerrard’s side were denied what seemed a clear penalty.

Morelos would later score the winner as Rangers moved to within four points of the Premiership title and the striker had his caution rescinded on Friday evening after a successful appeal during a Hampden hearing.

Gerrard will watch the match with St Mirren this afternoon from the stands at Ibrox, however, after Rangers accepted a one-match suspension following a Notice of Complaint that charged the 40-yearold with committing misconduct under Rule 203.

Gerrard said: “After the game, I immediately apologised for my part in the incident at half time in our game v Livingston.

“I reiterate that apology and accept a one-game suspension. As a club, we were extremely disappointed in the attitude displayed by the referee.

“We expect to have the ability for managers and officials to have discussion, but frustratingly, the referee was not forthcoming. This has also been noted by other managers in recent weeks. After my apology post match, I expected the referee to call to apologise for his part in the incident but I didn’t hear from him.

“Ross Wilson had a long, frank and honest discussion with [SFA head of referee operations] Crawford Allan today.

“Be in no doubt that our concerns have been made very clear and we are pleased that they were received openly by Crawford.”