This afternoon, Rangers have released a short statement in regard to the online furore today, over a fake social media video.
Spurious claims have been made, alleging that Rangers players indulged in chanting ‘F**k the Pope’.
Elected SNP politicians such as Humza Yousaf and James Dornan have got carried away with themselves and indulged the pile on, fuelled by a mendacious agenda-led video on social media.
I have also been made aware of this clip, if (and I stress if) this clip is genuine then any player or staff member found to be guilty of anti-Catholic hatred should be shown the door by the Club.
It is right Police Scot investigate & determine the facts around it. https://t.co/wRyI5ZP4Tz
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) May 17, 2021
What the hell?
Rangers players singing FTP
This is simply unacceptable
The SFA must investigate and take action https://t.co/vG7UgnbVpR— THE BLACK SALTIRE#FBSI (@80_mcswan) May 16, 2021
In an interim statement, Rangers have welcomed police investigations whilst also firing a warning shot across the bow of those SNP representatives.
The club communication stated:
“We are aware of a video circulating on social media. It is evident that this video was shared with an adjoining narrative which attempts to discredit our players and the reputation of Rangers Football Club. This highlights the dangers of ‘trial by social media.’”
“It is deeply concerning that this video has been taken as genuine and has been shared widely including by some political representatives who should be mindful of their influence and legal processes.”
“Our squad is richly diverse. Sectarianism is unacceptable and has no place in our club which is underlined by our Everyone Anyone campaign.”
“We are confident that no criminality took place, we have sought legal advice and look forward to cooperating with Police Scotland.”
Gers fans have been incensed today, with what has poured out from certain authorities, like the Justice Minister (Yousaf) above.
Rightful anger and condemnation has been aimed at a small minority of people who were violent and out of order at George Square on Saturday – this has been echoed by Rangers.
The conduct of the vast majority has been overlooked and ignored, simply damned for the mass gathering that took place.
Other demonstrations however, appear to be off limits from the same sources.