Shooting the Messenger
The behaviour of Rangers fans is in the news again.
Following the announcement that the Ibrox club is to face disciplinary charges from UEFA - over allegations of sectarian singing at last month's Europa League match - away to PSV Eindhoven.
But I'm not sure if the club's initial response will win them any friends.
Chief executive Martin Bain is reported as saying that Ranagers are "utterly dismayed" by the decision and will defend the club's position "vigorously".
Before adding that it was "absurd" to suggest that only Rangers have this problem.
Now this suggests that Rangers are the victims of some kind of witch-hunt - which is clearly nonsense.
Because the Ibrox club have form in this area - having been fined £8,280 by Uefa for their fans' behaviour - during a match against Osasuna in May 2007.
Shooting the messenger is an old diversionary tactic that will get Rangers nowhere - facing up to the message is what's required.
I'm sure Rangers have no desire to have these sectarian bigots masquerading as real supporters - because their behaviour continues to drag the club down.
And costs money the club can ill afford to lose.
But he solution is surely to work with the football authorities and the police - to identify the worst of the trouble makers.
Make an example of them - name, shame and prosecute the ringleaders.
Encourage the real Rangers fans to stand up for their club - and the others will soon get the message.
Following the announcement that the Ibrox club is to face disciplinary charges from UEFA - over allegations of sectarian singing at last month's Europa League match - away to PSV Eindhoven.
But I'm not sure if the club's initial response will win them any friends.
Chief executive Martin Bain is reported as saying that Ranagers are "utterly dismayed" by the decision and will defend the club's position "vigorously".
Before adding that it was "absurd" to suggest that only Rangers have this problem.
Now this suggests that Rangers are the victims of some kind of witch-hunt - which is clearly nonsense.
Because the Ibrox club have form in this area - having been fined £8,280 by Uefa for their fans' behaviour - during a match against Osasuna in May 2007.
Shooting the messenger is an old diversionary tactic that will get Rangers nowhere - facing up to the message is what's required.
I'm sure Rangers have no desire to have these sectarian bigots masquerading as real supporters - because their behaviour continues to drag the club down.
And costs money the club can ill afford to lose.
But he solution is surely to work with the football authorities and the police - to identify the worst of the trouble makers.
Make an example of them - name, shame and prosecute the ringleaders.
Encourage the real Rangers fans to stand up for their club - and the others will soon get the message.
