Rangers tell fans '˜ignore ill-informed over unbroken history'

Rangers have fired back at those who question the club's 'unbroken timeline' as they warn fans against unacceptable behaviour ahead of their Scottish Cup clash with Dundee.

Gary Harkins, left, was the source of much ire after joking that Rangers were a "new club". Picture: SNS

Dundee’s captain Gary Harkins, when talking to the press two weeks ago, joked that he had “never played them [Rangers] before” and that the Ibrox outfit was a “new club”.

Harkins was referring to oldco Rangers going into liquidation back in 2012. Since that time the debate of whether or not Rangers count as the same club has raged on continuously.

Having said nothing in the aftermath of Harkins’ comments, the Rangers board have now decided to issue a statement while calling on fans to ignore those who question the club’s history.

Referencing the Follow With Pride campaign a number of times, they ask supporters to refrain from any sort of behaviour that could find the club publicly criticised when Dundee come to town.

A statement on the website read: “In light of recent ill-considered comments made by journalists and players it is perhaps timely to point out that we must all continue to Follow With Pride.

“Clearly it rankles with some that we, Rangers, are still here with our history intact and the best way to protect this proud heritage is to ignore our detractors. Do not react to them and give others cause to criticise our behaviour.

“Instead, Follow With Pride and deny those who cannot accept reality, or legal judgment, to examine their own mind sets.

“We are all part of the one Rangers family and each one of us has a role to play in promoting Rangers as a modern, balanced and fair club. It is important all fans believe they are ambassadors for their club and it is their duty to help protect and enhance Rangers’ reputation.

“Celebrate the club, its unbroken timeline, honours and achievements but do not sing any inappropriate songs. Gestures and chants which are deemed offensive should also be avoided no matter the level of provocation and while it is important to be aware Police Scotland, the SFA and SPFL can take action, remember also that this Club enforces its own code of conduct.

“Let’s Follow With Pride and treat the ill-informed with the silent contempt they deserve.”

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