Category: Rangers

 

Few fixtures in world football carry the emotional weight, historical baggage, and explosive intensity of the Old Firm Derby. When Celtic and Rangers meet, nothing is ever “just another game.” Every pass, every tackle, every word spoken before kick-off is magnified, dissected, and weaponised by both sets of supporters. And ahead of today’s highly anticipated Old Firm clash, a single Instagram comment has poured petrol on an already raging fire.

What was meant to be a routine, calm, leadership-driven post from Celtic captain Callum McGregor has instead become the centre of a social media storm — after the Rangers captain dropped a comment that has enraged Celtic fans across Scotland and beyond.

Supporters are calling it disrespectful, provocative, and even “crossing the line.” Others say it was calculated mind games at its finest. One thing is certain: the derby atmosphere has just gone nuclear.

CALLUM McGREGOR’S POST: CALM, FOCUSED… AND FULL OF MEANING

On the morning of the Old Firm Derby, Callum McGregor did what many captains do. He posted a composed, leadership-heavy message on Instagram — a photo of himself in Celtic colours, captioned with words about focus, togetherness, belief, and fighting for the badge.

The post was classic McGregor.

No insults.

No jabs.

No controversy.

Just a captain rallying his team and supporters ahead of the biggest match in Scottish football.

Celtic fans flooded the comments with green hearts, messages of support, and calls to “finish the job.” Everything seemed normal — until one comment stopped everyone in their tracks.

THE RANGERS CAPTAIN’S COMMENT THAT SPARKED OUTRAGE

Buried among thousands of Celtic supporters’ replies was a comment from the Rangers captain’s verified account. A short line. Few words. But loaded with meaning.

According to fans who saw it before it was deleted or drowned out by reactions, the comment was interpreted as a direct dig at Celtic’s recent dominance, questioning McGregor’s leadership and hinting that “today will be different.”

While the wording itself wasn’t explicitly abusive, the timing, the source, and the tone made it explosive.

To Celtic fans, this wasn’t banter.

This wasn’t harmless rivalry.

This was seen as a deliberate provocation on derby day.

Within minutes, screenshots spread across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook groups, and fan forums. The reaction was instant — and furious.

“TERRIBLE,” “DISRESPECTFUL,” “OUT OF ORDER”: CELTIC FANS ERUPT

Celtic supporters did not hold back.

Many accused the Rangers captain of lacking class, arguing that captains should lead by example, not throw fuel onto a rivalry that already borders on hostility.

One fan wrote:

“That’s not mind games. That’s disrespect. McGregor posted a positive message and he turns it toxic.”

Another added:

“This is why Rangers are obsessed. Even on our captain’s page, they can’t stay quiet.”

Others went even further, calling the comment “terrible behaviour” and demanding accountability.

Some supporters argued that if roles were reversed, there would already be media outrage and calls for apologies.

MIND GAMES OR MENTAL WEAKNESS?

Not everyone saw it the same way.

A section of Rangers fans defended their captain, claiming it was classic derby mind games — a psychological attempt to get inside Celtic’s heads before kick-off.

To them, the outrage only proved the comment had worked.

One Rangers supporter posted:

“If Celtic fans are this angry before a ball is kicked, the job is already done.”

This split reaction only added to the tension. What started as a comment turned into a debate about leadership, professionalism, and respect in Scottish football.

WHY THIS COMMENT CUT DEEPER THAN USUAL

Old Firm trash talk isn’t new. Players have exchanged words for generations. So why did this one feel different?

The answer lies in Callum McGregor’s reputation.

McGregor is widely respected across Scottish football as a calm, disciplined leader who rarely engages in controversy. When a rival captain chooses his post to make a statement — on the morning of the derby — it feels personal.

To Celtic fans, it wasn’t just about rivalry. It was about encroaching on their captain’s space, hijacking a message meant for unity and turning it into a battlefield.

That’s why emotions exploded.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE MODERN OLD FIRM WAR

This incident also highlights a growing issue in modern football: social media as a new front in rivalry warfare.

In the past, these battles happened in tunnels, press conferences, or on the pitch. Now, they unfold in comment sections and screenshots.

A single emoji.

A short sentence.

A well-timed comment.

And suddenly, the entire football world is watching.

Clubs may preach professionalism, but players know exactly what they’re doing when they post — or comment — on derby day.

PRESSURE PILES ON BOTH CAPTAINS AHEAD OF KICK-OFF

With tensions boiling over, the pressure has only increased on both teams — especially the captains.

For Callum McGregor, the response will be expected on the pitch, not online. Celtic fans want leadership, composure, and a performance that silences the noise.

For the Rangers captain, every action will now be scrutinised. Any mistake, any lapse, any defeat will be linked back to that comment.

Because in Old Firm football, words live forever.

“LET THE FOOTBALL DO THE TALKING” — OR WILL IT?

Former players and pundits have already weighed in, urging both sides to refocus.

One former international said:

“Derbies are decided by discipline and mentality. Social media doesn’t win matches — performances do.”

But supporters know better. In this fixture, everything matters. Emotions. Perception. Momentum.

And sometimes, a single comment can shape the narrative long before the first whistle.

CONCLUSION: A DERBY ALREADY ON FIRE

As Celtic and Rangers prepare to walk onto the pitch today, one thing is undeniable: this Old Firm Derby has already kicked off online.

What the Rangers captain commented on Callum McGregor’s Instagram may have been brief — but its impact has been massive.

Celtic fans are furious.

Rangers fans are defiant.

The tension is sky-high.

Now, only one thing can settle it.

Ninety minutes.

No filters.

No comments.

Just football.

And when the final whistle blows, that Instagram comment will either be remembered as bold mind games — or a terrible mistake that backfired spectacularly.

 

The build-up to the Old Firm derby is never quiet. It is never calm. And it is certainly never free of controversy. But even by Glasgow standards, Chris Sutton has managed to pour petrol on an already raging fire with comments that have sent shockwaves through the Celtic support — and placed immense pressure on head coach Wilfred Nancy just days before one of the most emotionally charged fixtures in world football.

The former Celtic striker, now a high-profile pundit, has issued what many are calling a “brutal public warning” to Nancy, insisting that two Celtic players must be left out of the squad entirely if the club wants any chance of surviving the Old Firm showdown.

A 30-year-old attacker Iheanacho and a 24-year-old midfielder Tierney.

And as expected, it did not go down well with Celtic fans at all.

“YOU CAN’T AFFORD SENTIMENT IN AN OLD FIRM” — SUTTON DROPS THE BOMBSHELL

Speaking ahead of the derby, Sutton did not hide behind vague analysis or cautious phrasing. Instead, he went straight for the jugular.

According to Sutton, the Old Firm is not the place for experiments, reputations, or loyalty — and that Wilfred Nancy must be ruthless if he wants to avoid humiliation.

“If Celtic go into this Old Firm with the wrong personnel, they’ll be punished — badly,” Sutton warned.

“For me, there are two players who simply shouldn’t be involved.”

The comments immediately sparked controversy when Sutton explicitly named the 30-year-old attacker Iheanacho and the 24-year-old midfielder Tierney as players he believes should be omitted altogether.

Not benched.

Not rotated.

Omitted.

That single word sent Celtic social media into meltdown.

WHY SUTTON WANTS THE 30-YEAR-OLD ATTACKER IHEANACHO LEFT OUT

Sutton’s harshest criticism was reserved for Iheanacho, the experienced 30-year-old attacker who many fans still see as a big-game option.

But Sutton clearly disagrees.

In his analysis, the former striker questioned Iheanacho’s work rate, sharpness, and suitability for the intensity of an Old Firm derby.

“This fixture is about energy, aggression, and relentless pressing,” Sutton said.

“If you can’t set the tone from the front, you become a liability.”

Sutton argued that Iheanacho has struggled to impose himself in high-tempo matches this season and believes Rangers would target him relentlessly.

In Sutton’s view:

• The 30-year-old attacker doesn’t press aggressively enough
• He can slow Celtic’s transitions
• He risks isolating the midfield under pressure

In a derby where every second counts, Sutton fears Celtic would be overrun before halftime if they start with the wrong attacking profile.

For many fans, this assessment felt not just harsh — but disrespectful.

TIERNEY CONTROVERSY: WHY SUTTON WANTS THE 24-YEAR-OLD MIDFIELDER OMITTED

If the Iheanacho comments caused outrage, Sutton’s assessment of 24-year-old midfielder Tierney poured gasoline on the flames.

Tierney has been viewed by sections of the support as a dynamic option — youthful, technically gifted, and fearless. But Sutton questioned whether fearlessness without discipline is dangerous in a derby environment.

“The Old Firm eats players alive,” Sutton stated.

“If your positioning is off, if your decision-making is rushed, Rangers will exploit it.”

Sutton suggested that Tierney’s recent performances show signs of:

• Over-committing defensively
• Losing shape under pressure
• Forcing passes instead of controlling tempo

According to Sutton, leaving Tierney out isn’t a punishment — it’s damage limitation.

That explanation did little to calm the storm.

CELTIC FANS LEFT FUMING: “WHO DOES SUTTON THINK HE IS?”

Within minutes of Sutton’s comments being aired, Celtic fan forums, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook groups erupted with anger.

Many supporters accused Sutton of:

• Undermining the manager
• Disrespecting players publicly
• Playing mind games ahead of the derby

Some fans went even further, suggesting Sutton was deliberately destabilising the club for media attention.

“This is exactly what we don’t need before an Old Firm,” one fan wrote.

“Publicly calling for players to be dropped is outrageous.”

Others defended Iheanacho and Tierney fiercely, pointing out that both have delivered in pressure moments and deserve trust, not public dismissal.

The divide among fans has been sharp — and increasingly hostile.

PRESSURE MOUNTS ON WILFRED NANCY

Lost amid the noise is the uncomfortable position Wilfred Nancy now finds himself in.

Ignore Sutton — and risk being accused of arrogance if things go wrong.

Follow Sutton’s advice — and face backlash from supporters who see the omissions as betrayal.

Nancy has preached unity since arriving at Celtic, often emphasising collective responsibility and trust. But Sutton’s comments have forced a brutal question into the spotlight:

Does Nancy stick to his philosophy, or does he go ultra-pragmatic for survival?

Behind the scenes, sources suggest the coaching staff are acutely aware of the external noise — and concerned about how it might affect dressing-room morale.

OLD FIRM MIND GAMES? OR GENUINE FOOTBALL ANALYSIS?

There is another theory doing the rounds among supporters: that Sutton’s comments are not just analysis — but strategy.

Some believe Sutton is engaging in classic Old Firm mind games, knowing full well that his words would:

• Distract Celtic
• Put players under pressure
• Shift focus away from tactical preparation

Whether intentional or not, the damage may already be done.

Players named publicly ahead of a derby rarely forget it — and they rarely forgive it.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE DERBY

The Old Firm has a habit of punishing narratives.

Players written off often rise.

Tactical predictions often collapse.

And pundits are frequently left scrambling for explanations.

If Iheanacho starts and scores?

If Tierney dominates midfield?

Sutton’s comments will be replayed endlessly — and mercilessly.

But if Celtic struggle, and Rangers exploit the very weaknesses Sutton highlighted, his warning will look prophetic.

That is the brutal reality of football discourse.

ONE THING IS CERTAIN: THERE IS NO HIDING PLACE NOW

Whether Sutton intended it or not, he has turned this Old Firm derby into something even bigger.

For Wilfred Nancy, it’s a test of leadership.

For Iheanacho and Tierney, it’s a test of character.

For Celtic fans, it’s another emotional rollercoaster in a rivalry that never sleeps.

One wrong decision.

One costly mistake.

One moment of brilliance.

And Chris Sutton’s warning will either be remembered as reckless provocation — or painful truth.

In the Old Firm, there is no middle ground.

 

Scottish football woke up to chaos — again.

Just a few hours after a widely discussed interview involving Rangers captain James Tavernier, Celtic skipper Callum McGregor has set the entire Scottish football world on fire with a single, unexpected move online. What was meant to be a quiet build-up to the biggest fixture in the country instantly turned into full-blown Old Firm madness, as fans from both sides scrambled to understand what they had just seen.

Within minutes of the post going live, reactions flooded social media:

🗣 “Had to check this was actually his account.”

🗣 “No way is this real. WTF.” 🤣

🗣 “Is that a reference to what I think it is?”

The post quickly became one of the most-liked and most-discussed uploads ever made by a Scottish Premiership player ahead of an Old Firm derby. And crucially — it didn’t mention Rangers. It didn’t mention Celtic. It didn’t even mention football directly.

That’s what made it so powerful.

THE CALM BEFORE THE DIGITAL STORM

The timing could not have been more perfect — or more provocative.

Earlier in the day, James Tavernier had spoken publicly in an interview that many interpreted as a rallying cry for Rangers ahead of the Old Firm showdown. His words were analysed, debated, praised by Rangers fans, and dismissed by Celtic supporters as “predictable” and “scripted.”

Most expected Celtic’s response, if any, to come through the manager, a press conference, or a carefully worded club statement.

Instead, it came through Callum McGregor’s personal account — raw, unscripted, and completely unexpected.

No build-up.

No warning.

Just a post that instantly stopped Scottish football in its tracks.

“IS THIS ACTUALLY HIM?”

The first reaction across social media wasn’t anger — it was disbelief.

Fans from both sides admitted they had to double-check the account details, the verification badge, even past posts, just to confirm it was genuinely McGregor.

That alone tells you everything.

Callum McGregor is not known for online controversy. He’s measured. Reserved. A leader who usually lets his performances do the talking. Which is exactly why this post hit harder than any press conference ever could.

Within minutes, screenshots spread across X, Instagram, WhatsApp groups, and fan forums. Influencers, journalists, former players — everyone was suddenly talking about the same thing.

What did McGregor mean by this?

THE POST THAT SAID EVERYTHING WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING

What made the post so explosive was its ambiguity.

There were no insults.

No direct references.

No obvious taunts.

Yet somehow, it felt like a direct message — not just to Rangers, but to the entire Scottish football establishment.

Fans immediately began decoding it, line by line, emoji by emoji, punctuation by punctuation.

Was it a reference to Tavernier’s interview?

Was it a subtle nod to recent Old Firm history?

Was it aimed at critics, rivals, or even doubters inside his own fanbase?

One thing was clear: this was not accidental.

SOCIAL MEDIA GOES INTO MELTDOWN

The reaction was instant and overwhelming.

Celtic fans hailed it as “elite captaincy,” praising McGregor for winning the psychological battle before kick-off.

Rangers fans, meanwhile, were split — some laughed it off, others accused McGregor of arrogance, while a vocal section insisted it would “come back to haunt him.”

Memes followed.

Parodies appeared.

Debates raged.

Within hours, the post had racked up record-breaking engagement, becoming one of the most-liked football-related posts in Scotland this season.

And that’s before the match has even started.

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL BATTLE OF THE OLD FIRM

The Old Firm derby has always been about more than football.

It’s about mind games.

Narratives.

Moments that live far beyond 90 minutes.

By posting when he did — just hours after Tavernier’s interview — McGregor ensured the spotlight shifted instantly.

Suddenly, Tavernier’s words were no longer the headline.

McGregor’s post was.

Former players weighed in, with one pundit describing it as “a masterclass in modern captaincy,” while another warned it could “add unnecessary pressure.”

But pressure is exactly what Old Firm leaders are paid to handle.

WHAT THIS SAYS ABOUT McGREGOR AS CAPTAIN

This moment revealed something crucial about Callum McGregor.

He understands timing.

He understands symbolism.

And he understands the Old Firm better than most.

Rather than shouting, he whispered — and the whole country leaned in to listen.

Some insiders believe the post was designed not to provoke Rangers, but to galvanise Celtic supporters, reminding them of belief, confidence, and identity ahead of the derby.

Others think it was a deliberate response to external noise — a reminder that Celtic players are listening, watching, and ready.

Either way, it worked.

DRESSING ROOM MESSAGE OR PUBLIC STATEMENT?

There’s now intense speculation about whether the post was aimed internally or externally.

Was it a message to his teammates?

A signal that the squad is united?

Or a subtle warning to the opposition?

One former Celtic player suggested:

“Sometimes the best messages are the ones only your own people fully understand.”

If that’s true, then Rangers may never truly know whether they were the target — and that uncertainty alone can be unsettling.

RANGERS FANS RESPOND — AND THE FIRE GROWS

As expected, Rangers fans didn’t stay silent.

Some mocked the hype, calling it “social media nonsense.”

Others warned McGregor not to “poke the bear.”

A few even admitted — grudgingly — that it was “clever.”

That mix of reactions is exactly what fuels Old Firm tension.

Because now, whatever happens on the pitch, this post will be remembered.

If Celtic win, it becomes legendary.

If Rangers win, it becomes ammunition.

That’s the risk McGregor took — and accepted.

WHY THIS MOMENT FEELS DIFFERENT

Scottish football has seen countless derby build-ups, but this one feels different.

Not louder.

Not angrier.

Just sharper.

In an era where players are trained to be media-safe and predictable, McGregor broke the mould — not with controversy, but with confidence.

And that’s why people can’t stop talking about it.

ONE POST. A THOUSAND INTERPRETATIONS.

As the Old Firm derby approaches, one thing is certain: the psychological battle has already begun.

James Tavernier spoke.

Callum McGregor responded — without saying a word.

Now, all that remains is football.

But make no mistake — whatever happens next, this post has already earned its place in Old Firm folklore.

And Scotland will be watching.

 

 

In what has become one of the most highly scrutinised fixtures on the Scottish football calendar, the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has issued a stern warning to Rangers supporters ahead of tomorrow’s Old Firm derby against Celtic. This caution comes as freshly implemented matchday rules, designed to curb disorderly conduct and enhance safety, take effect amid ongoing concerns from clubs, policing authorities, and league officials about fan behaviour at one of British football’s most intense rivalries.

The announcement marks another chapter in a series of escalated efforts by Scottish football authorities to restore order at fixtures that have historically attracted not just passionate support but high levels of scrutiny over pyrotechnics, crowd control, and sectarian tensions.

What the SPFL Warning Means

While the SPFL has not published the exact full text of its warning in every media outlet, multiple credible reports and the matchday guidance agreed between Rangers, Celtic, and Police Scotland provide a clear indication of the new expectations being communicated to supporters:

1. Strict Entry and Escort Procedures

Away supporters attending the match at Celtic Park — in this case Rangers fans — have been asked to adhere to rigorous arrival and entry protocols agreed by both clubs and Police Scotland. Rangers supporters with tickets have been instructed to arrive up to two hours before kick-off, gather at a designated meeting point (the Emirates Arena), and then walk in a police-escorted group across to the Parkhead stadium. Turnstiles will open early for this purpose and late arrivals risk missing kick-off as they may be held for safety reasons. 

This framework is part of a broader attempt to manage crowd flow and reduce the type of high-risk interactions that can occur when large numbers of rival fans converge on city streets and transport nodes. The SPFL and law enforcement agencies have clearly signalled that compliance with these procedures isn’t optional — and failing to do so could jeopardise both personal entry and future allocations for supporters.

2. Heightened Emphasis on Pyrotechnics and Misconduct

The warning also heavily underscored the **zero-tolerance approach to pyrotechnics — flares, smoke bombs, and similar devices — inside or near the stadium precinct. Rangers supporters have been reminded that bringing pyrotechnics is illegal and carries risk of arrest, immediate ejection, and club sanctions, including potential reductions in future away ticket allocations. 

This is no idle threat: the SPFL and clubs across Scotland have been grappling with pyrotechnic misuse for years, leading to sanctions such as ticket allocation cuts when supporter conduct breaches accepted safety standards. In fact, both Celtic and Rangers have faced enforced reductions in ticket numbers in cup competitions due to pyro-related incidents in recent seasons. 

3. Broader League Crackdown on Dangerous Behaviour

The league’s latest warning fits into an ongoing, more structured campaign to tighten the climate around fan conduct:

• Missiles and thrown objects: These continue to be a concern at high-profile matches. Fans throwing objects onto the pitch or towards opposing supporters and officials have faced severe rebukes, investigations, and potential club penalties.  
• Sectarian and abusive behaviour: Police in Scotland have investigated threatening messages and abuse connected to Old Firm matches, including concerning incidents involving match officials. These investigations have drawn broader warnings about intimidation and harassment.  
• Safety certificates and licensing: Security experts have previously warned that if clubs fail to manage pyrotechnics and dangerous behaviour, they not only risk league sanctions but also threats to safety certification of stadiums.  

While not every measure is brand new, their consolidation ahead of this particular derby underscores how seriously football authorities are taking the fixture’s risk profile and the need to balance fan passion with public safety.

Historical Context: Why This Matters

To understand why the SPFL’s warning resonates so strongly with fans and clubs alike, it helps to look at the backdrop of Old Firm derbies over recent years:

Old Firm Ticket Allocations and Away Fan Access

Away fan allocations have been a recurrent flashpoint:

• In prior seasons, both clubs drastically reduced away ticket numbers following safety concerns, with some fixtures played completely without away supporters.  
• A return to limited away support — with Rangers receiving a few thousand away tickets — was negotiated for recent meetings, reflecting careful compromise between sporting fairness and safety logistics.  

These twists in policy reflect a broader tussle over how to preserve the historic scale of Old Firm rivalry while acknowledging that full stadium allocations for tens of thousands of travelling supporters have, at times, been cited by authorities as an untenable public safety risk without massive policing and security resources.

Legacy of Crowd Disorder

Old Firm matches are among the most intense and historically charged rivalries in world football, rooted in cultural, religious and social fault lines in Glasgow and beyond. While modern Scottish football has sought to defuse such tensions, every high-profile derby risks reigniting elements of that legacy — pyrotechnics, chants, songs, and confrontations that can cross boundaries into misconduct.

The SPFL’s warning is not just about one match or one set of supporters; it’s part of a longer effort to redefine boundaries — showing that passion is welcome, but danger and illegal actions are not.

Fan Reaction and Club Responses

Public responses to the SPFL’s warnings have been mixed, reflecting the broader divides around derby culture:

• Supporters urging compliance argue that co-operation with matchday procedures and safety protocols ensures everyone can enjoy the game and minimises disruptions. For many ordinary travelling fans, the message is simple: don’t risk club sanctions or personal arrest over avoidable behaviour.
• Critical voices within fan communities sometimes frame such warnings as heavy-handed or punitive, asserting that loyal supporters are being treated like criminals based on the actions of a small minority. Such sentiment can fuel online debate and contribute to distrust between some supporter groups and authorities.

Importantly, while passionate discourse and strong opinions are part of football culture, the SPFL’s stance emphasises responsibility and safety — aiming to protect the vast majority of fans who want nothing more than to support their teams in a safe environment.

What This Means for Tomorrow’s Derby

With the match scheduled for tomorrow, the practical implications are clear:

• Rangers fans attending must comply with entry procedures and arrive early to avoid missing kick-off.
• Any behaviour involving flares, rockets, or dangerous conduct will be treated seriously — potentially leading to immediate ejection, arrest, or future restrictions.
• The clubs will be monitored closely by league and police authorities throughout the day; both teams have a vested interest in a safe, drama-free fixture that can be decided on the pitch.

As the Old Firm derby approaches, there’s no doubt that football passion in Scotland remains intense — but with fresh, enforced rules and stern warnings from the SPFL, tomorrow’s fixture will be a test of whether supporter fervour can coexist with the league’s renewed focus on responsibility and safety.

The SPFL’s warning to Rangers fans ahead of the Old Firm derby is emblematic of broader safety policies, a response to longstanding issues in Scottish football, and a clear statement that certain behaviours will no longer be tolerated if clubs and supporters wish to preserve open access to these historic fixtures.

 

 

 

In what has to be one of the most jaw-dropping moves in Scottish football history, the SPFL has swept aside tradition, form and expectations by banning one of its most experienced officials — Steven McLean — from taking charge of the titanic Old Firm derby between Celtic and Rangers tomorrow. Fans, pundits, players and even fellow referees are stunned. And the reasons behind this seismic decision? Well… they explode every myth you thought you knew about refereeing in Scotland.

This isn’t just another “referee pulled off duty” story. This is politics, pressure, integrity and controversy all colliding in a single announcement. Buckle up.

🔥 

THE BAN THAT BLEW UP SCOTTISH FOOTBALL

According to the official match appointment announcements, Steven McLean — a referee with over two decades of experience — was initially named as the official for the Old Firm fixture. But within hours of that being publicly revealed, the SPFL pulled the plug and WITHDREW his appointment. Yes — before a ball has even been kicked. 

That in itself was shocking. But why? That’s where things turn explosive.

😱 

SPFL FEARED UNPRECEDENTED BACKLASH AFTER RECENT CONTROVERSIAL OLD FIRM DECISIONS

Scottish football insiders reveal that Steven McLean has been under intense scrutiny from both sides of the Old Firm rivalry due to a series of recent controversial VAR and refereeing decisions linked directly to matches in which he played a key role as referee or VAR official.

In the current season alone, McLean has been involved in VAR incidents where the outcomes swung the momentum of high-profile games:

• A blatant goal ruled out in a Rangers match against Celtic, sparking outrage from supporters and pundits alike.
• Contentious penalty decisions (or lack thereof) involving Rangers that even pundits said might have been wrongly adjudicated.
• Panels reviewing his calls debated whether the correct call was ever made.  

This mounting criticism, particularly from Rangers camp insiders — who had publicly questioned VAR calls and McLean’s role — apparently hit SPFL decision-makers like a shockwave. One club source said: “Just imagine the fallout if McLean was put in the middle tomorrow and makes a game-deciding call. We’d see chaos.”

⚠️ 

FEAR OF RIOTS, ABUSE AND SAFETY CONCERNS

But there’s a darker, almost unbelievable reason at the heart of this ban.

In the wake of recent high-stakes Old Firm clashes, referees and match officials have faced unprecedented levels of abuse, threats, intimidation, and even possible safety risks. The Scottish FA and SPFL have reportedly been involved in behind-the-scenes crisis talks about mentor safety.

Why is this relevant?

Because the governing body is acutely aware that a high-pressure referee like McLean — who is well known among fans — could become the target of fan ire that spirals out of control. And that could lead to trouble both inside and outside the stadium — from pitch invasions to social-media death threats.

Scottish referees have already been on the receiving end of deeply disturbing threats following controversial decisions in Old Firm games, prompting Police Scotland involvement in some cases. 

One senior match official told us on condition of anonymity:

“This isn’t just about one appointment anymore. It’s about perceived bias, online trolls, toxic fanaticism… and we’re simply not willing to have our people put in the centre of that without extreme protection.”

📉 

IS THIS AN ADMISSION THAT REFEREES CAN’T DEAL WITH OLD FIRM INTENSITY ANYMORE?

Make no mistake — the Old Firm derby is not just a football match. It is a cultural event, charged with history, religion, social identity and decades of tension. 

Celtic and Rangers aren’t merely clubs — they are emotional identities for tens of thousands of fans. Nothing — absolutely nothing — happens in these games without being pored over, criticized, dissected and weaponized on social media.

And referees are not exempt from that firestorm.

Some pundits have even suggested the SPFL’s decision represents a terrifying admission:

The league does not trust its referees to withstand the pressure of the Old Firm without facing serious consequences.

Here’s why that narrative is catching fire:

✔ There have been public calls by clubs for explanations and apologies over McLean’s recent VAR decisions. 

✔ McLean was involved in decisions that analysts publicly questioned for clarity and correctness.

✔ Fan groups have relentlessly attacked his reputation online.

Add it all together, and you have a recipe for an explosive match day. Many believe the SPFL would rather avoid that entirely — even if it means sidelining one of Scotland’s most experienced officials.

🧨 

CONSPIRACY THEORIES NOW RUNNING WILD

As expected, the internet has already lit up with theories that range from the absurd to the sensational:

🚩 

1. “It’s a COVER-UP!”

Some sections of fans believe the SPFL bowed to pressure from powerful clubs, effectively shielding one side from decisions they fear McLean would make.

⚖ 

2. “Bias Allegations Run Deep!”

Across social media, many supporters are convinced that McLean has a subconscious preference toward one club — whether or not there’s any real evidence.

🤯 

3. “The SPFL Fears a National Security Incident!”

A minority of fans even claim the league took this step because they genuinely fear violence should McLean make one controversial call during the derby.

Whether any of these theories are true is completely beside the point — they reflect the total breakdown in trust around refereeing decisions in Scottish football.

This is not normal fan chatter — this is armed tribalism at its fiercest.

🎙 

WHAT FANS ARE SAYING RIGHT NOW…

Across fan forums, Reddit threads, and Twitter feeds, reactions are wild:

🔥 “SPFL are scared! They know McLean would get crucified.”

🔥 “We’ve lost confidence in our refs — we need foreign officials for Old Firm.”

🔥 “This is bigger than just one referee — this is an identity war.”

Even among neutrals, the sentiment is that something is deeply wrong with how officiating is handled — and this ban has only supercharged that feeling.

📊 

WHAT THIS COULD MEAN GOING FORWARD

This decision — whether supporters like it or hate it — might be a turning point:

👉 Does this set a precedent?

Will referees now be judged *not on their merit, but on how much conflict they are expected to cause?

👉 Does this normalise shielding officials from pressure?

If so, is that good for football integrity — or a slippery slope?

👉 Will the SPFL now change how referee appointments are made?

These questions don’t just matter this week — they could reshape Scottish football for years to come.

🏟 

THE ULTIMATE IRONY?

Steven McLean was once trusted with high-profile matches — including Old Firm games — with zero controversy. 

That’s what makes this ban so surreal.

A man once seen as capable of fairly adjudicating Scotland’s most intense rivalry is now deemed too controversial to officiate it.

For many fans, that’s a bitter pill to swallow. For others, it’s a necessary move in an era where referee abuse online and offline is at a terrifying high.

One thing is certain:

Tomorrow’s Old Firm won’t just be about Celtic vs Rangers —

it will be about how Scottish football got here.

 

 

In Scottish football, there are opinions… and then there are statements that ignite chaos.

Kris Boyd’s latest comments firmly fall into the second category.

With Rangers still waiting to lift a major trophy since their 2021 title win, the former Ibrox striker has refused to back down from his stance — insisting that Rangers remain the bigger club than Celtic. The reaction has been swift, brutal, and entirely predictable.

Celtic fans are furious. Rangers fans are divided. And once again, the Old Firm rivalry has exploded beyond the pitch and into the headlines.

https://x.com/scotsunsport/status/2006417869102305434?s=46

Boyd may have insisted that his view is “not controversial”, but judging by the fallout, Scottish football disagrees.

Rangers Without Silverware Since 2021 — The Uncomfortable Reality

There is no escaping one key fact at the centre of this storm: Rangers have not won a trophy since 2021.

That season — Steven Gerrard’s unbeaten league title — was meant to signal a turning point. It stopped Celtic’s historic ten-in-a-row, restored pride at Ibrox, and suggested Rangers were ready to dominate again.

Instead, the years that followed have told a different story.

• Celtic reclaimed the league
• Domestic cups returned to Parkhead
• Rangers repeatedly fell short in decisive moments

Despite flashes of promise in Europe and strong league finishes, Rangers’ inability to consistently convert opportunity into silverware has become a growing source of frustration for supporters.

It is against this backdrop that Boyd’s comments landed — and why they felt like fuel poured on an already raging fire.

What Kris Boyd Said — And Why It Blew Up

Speaking in his role as a pundit, Boyd did not sugar-coat his assessment of the current situation.

He openly criticised Rangers’ performances in Old Firm matches, questioned the squad’s quality, and suggested that Celtic are currently miles ahead in terms of structure, confidence, and identity.

Yet the most explosive element was Boyd’s underlying claim: despite Celtic’s recent success, Rangers are still the bigger football club.

According to Boyd, this isn’t arrogance — it’s history.

He points to Rangers’ record number of league titles, their global fanbase, and their long-standing status as one of the most decorated clubs in world football. From his perspective, recent trophy droughts do not erase decades of dominance.

To Boyd, that argument is straightforward.

To Celtic fans, it is completely unacceptable.

Celtic Fans React — “Living in the Past”

Social media erupted within minutes of Boyd’s remarks being circulated.

Celtic supporters accused the pundit of:

• Clinging to history instead of reality
• Ignoring recent dominance
• Moving the goalposts whenever Rangers fall behind on the pitch

Many pointed out that football is judged by what happens now, not what happened generations ago. Others mocked the idea that a club without trophies for several seasons could still claim superiority over one that continues to collect them.

The phrase “living in the past” appeared repeatedly across fan forums, comment sections, and timelines.

For Celtic fans, Boyd’s stance felt like a refusal to accept the current balance of power — and worse, an attempt to downplay their club’s success.

Why This Debate Never Dies

The “bigger club” argument is not new — but it never loses heat.

Rangers supporters traditionally lean on:

• Total trophy count
• Historical dominance
• Worldwide recognition

Celtic fans counter with:

• Recent domestic control
• Consistency under modern football structures
• Sustained success across competitions

The truth is uncomfortable for both sides: each argument depends on where you choose to start counting.

Boyd’s comments reopened this debate at a moment when emotions are already raw — particularly after Old Firm defeats and missed opportunities.

And in Scottish football, timing is everything.

Even Rangers Fans Are Split

While Celtic supporters were united in outrage, Rangers fans themselves were far from unanimous.

Some applauded Boyd’s honesty, arguing that criticism is necessary if the club is ever going to move forward. They saw his comments as a challenge — a reminder of what Rangers should be striving to be.

Others, however, felt Boyd’s words only highlighted uncomfortable truths:

• Rangers are chasing Celtic, not leading
• History cannot win matches
• Big-club status must be backed up with trophies

For a section of the Ibrox support, Boyd’s confidence felt misplaced at a time when results continue to fall short of expectations.

The Real Issue: Present vs Past

At the heart of this controversy lies a deeper question about modern football:

How much does history really matter anymore?

In today’s game, success is measured season by season. Fans demand progress, trophies, and European nights — not reminders of what their club used to be.

Celtic’s recent run of silverware has given their supporters confidence and momentum. Rangers’ inability to consistently match that success has created pressure, impatience, and scrutiny.

Boyd’s argument — whether intentional or not — exposed that contrast.

And that is why it hurt.

Punditry, Provocation, and Headlines

There is also a wider truth worth acknowledging: bold opinions drive attention.

Kris Boyd knows the Old Firm landscape better than most. He understands that strong statements generate reaction, clicks, and debate. In the age of football media, neutrality rarely trends.

By saying “this is not controversial”, Boyd ensured that it would become exactly that.

And once again, the Old Firm rivalry proved why it remains one of the most intense in world football — capable of turning a single comment into a national talking point.

Where Does This Leave Rangers and Celtic?

For Celtic, the response is simple: keep winning.

As long as trophies continue to arrive at Parkhead, arguments about size will feel academic.

For Rangers, the challenge is clearer — and harder:

• Close the gap
• Deliver silverware
• Turn criticism into motivation

Until that happens, voices like Boyd’s will continue to divide opinion — and invite ridicule from rivals.

Final Word

Kris Boyd may insist his comments are not controversial, but in Scottish football, context matters.

A trophy drought, a dominant rival, and the most bitter rivalry in the country created the perfect storm. His remarks didn’t just reopen an old debate — they reminded everyone how fragile pride can be when results don’t match reputation.

One thing is certain:

As long as Rangers and Celtic exist, arguments about who is “bigger” will never truly end.