Rangers administration: Fans to break protest during play at Ibrox

RANGERS supporters are planning to protest against both club owner Craig Whyte and his predecessor Sir David Murray at Ibrox tomorrow but have pledged to provide unequivocal backing for manager Ally McCoist and his players.

The SPL fixture against Kilmarnock looks set to be played in front of the biggest non-Old Firm attendance of the season as fans respond to McCoist’s rallying call this week following the Scottish champions’ descent into administration.

The Scotsman has learned that some sections of the Rangers support, including the vocal Blue Order group who occupy part of the Broomloan Road Stand and have been singled out for praise by McCoist several times this season, intend to display their disapproval of Murray’s part in the financial crisis gripping the club and Whyte’s stewardship since his takeover last May.

However, any protests, whether in the form of banners or chants, will be made before kick-off or at half-time, not during the course of the match, when the Rangers support wish to show a sense of solidarity with the team on the pitch.

Despite the assurances of administrators Duff and Phelps that Rangers will survive, there remains real concern among the club’s support over the fate that awaits them at the end of the administration process.

Andy Kerr, president of the Rangers Supporters Assembly, said last night: “Emotion is understandably running high and there are many questions that remain unanswered.

“However, our first priority is to show unity and stand firmly behind Ally McCoist and the playing squad on Saturday. We have a great tradition of loyalty and this is undoubtedly our greatest hour of need. A full house on Saturday will show everyone that we may be down, but we are certainly not out.

“This news has come as a real body blow to our fans and our anxiety about the future of the club has risen significantly. We have had an initial telephone conference call with the administrators and read the statements they have issued in the last two days. It is encouraging that they feel confident the club can emerge from administration.

“We are arranging to meet with them as soon as possible with the aim of providing clarity for all our fans on what administration means for the future of the club. Confidence is very low at the moment and we must have reassurance quickly.

“I’m sure all Rangers fans stand ready to help save our club. However, it is vital that the efforts of everyone are thought-out, clear, achievable and, above all, secure the future of our club. I urge every fan to get behind the team and, going forward, we can all strive to achieve an outcome that maintains the great history of Rangers Football Club.”