Graeme Souness makes Rangers and Celtic demand after pitch invasion backlash as doing one thing won't help either rival
Legendary former Ibrox boss has called on both clubs to make public statements ASAP as one major criticism named
Graeme Souness has been left dismayed by the continued silence from Rangers and Celtic after Sunday’s Old Firm disturbances at Ibrox - suggesting both clubs are staring at a “lose-lose situation”.
Tensions flared between both sets of supporters in the aftermath of the Scottish Cup quarter-final tie, with Police Scotland and First Minister John Swinney releasing statements on the disgraceful incident.
Horrendous video footage has since emerged on social media of the ugly and violent clashes. And legendary former Gers manager Souness has now given his thoughts on the carnage that unfolded.
He told talkSPORT: “I would think they should be ahead of this criticism. Being silent isn't going to help them. I think they need to come out and make a statement as quickly as possible. It's a no-win for them, whatever they say, it's a no-win for them.
“There's no doubt there will be an enormous investigation, whatever ruling comes out at the end, I'm not sure if it will make any great changes. I think it's black and white.”
Questioned about the police's reaction to the fan disorder, Souness couldn’t fault their efforts. He added: “I think everyone would have been hoping the game has moved on.
“No matter what you think about Scottish football, Rangers and Celtic are monsters. They are not football clubs; they are institutions. What makes them institutions is the passion their supporters have for the club. As always, it's a small minority that spoils it for everyone.”
Graeme Souness questions whether alcohol consumption had factor in fan disorder
Recounting his own attempt to capture the pre-match atmosphere after being spotted filming Rangers tifo display as both sides emerged from the tunnel, Souness recalled: “I actually got my phone out before the game and filmed it. It is the biggest, most passionate football match you will ever go to.”
Asked for his summary of the disturbances in the aftermath of Celtic’s 4-2 penalty shoot-out win, Souness questioned whether it was “ultras” only who had swarmed the pitch before suggesting potential alcohol consumption may have been a contributing factor to the chaos.
“Was it just the (ultras) who came onto the pitch?” he questioned. “I don't know. Alcohol unfortunately plays a part in it. I'm on the way to the stadium, and on both sides, people are topping themselves up. And that would be before lunch.”