Graeme Souness Condemns Old Firm Clubs for Silence After Ibrox Shame Game
Rangers legend Graeme Souness has launched a scathing critique of both Celtic and Rangers, insisting the clubs are harming themselves by remaining silent in the aftermath of Sunday's violent scenes at Ibrox Stadium. Police made nine arrests following chaotic pitch invasions after Celtic's penalty shootout victory in the Scottish Cup quarter-final, with injuries reported among officers, stewards, and fans—including a 10-year-old child.
Police and Government Condemnation Ignored
Despite widespread condemnation from senior Police Scotland figures and the Scottish Government, both Old Firm clubs have declined to issue any public statements. Souness, speaking to talkSPORT, argued that silence is counterproductive and that proactive communication is essential.
'I would think Rangers and Celtic should be ahead of this criticism,' Souness stated. '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. There's no doubt there will be an enormous investigation.'
Away Fan Allocations in Jeopardy
The match saw a return to the traditional format of allowing the away team a full allocation of 7,500 fans, but Souness believes Sunday's violence has likely ended that arrangement forever. He described the incident as a black-and-white issue that will have lasting repercussions.
'I don't think the away end will be full again, ever,' Souness warned. 'It's a small element of supporters that react to defeat in a negative way. As much as they try to control it, alcohol does play a part in it unfortunately.'
Atmosphere Versus Safety Concerns
Souness acknowledged that having Celtic supporters in the Broomloan Stand created an electric atmosphere, calling it 'the biggest derby in world football.' However, he lamented that the violent minority has spoiled the experience for everyone.
'What makes them institutions is the passion their supporters have,' he noted. 'And, as always, a small minority spoil it for everyone. I think it will be a long time before we see that number of away supporters again.'
Celtic Manager Martin O'Neill Echoes Concerns
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill, who had previously advocated for larger away allocations, also expressed sadness that Sunday's events may have permanently damaged the prospect. He praised the pre-invasion atmosphere as among the best he has experienced but condemned the subsequent violence.
O'Neill told talkSPORT: 'I'm really, obviously, quite saddened by the events. Saddened seems almost like you're minimising or downplaying things. But overall it's a shame because I think the things that I was hoping would happen may now not happen anymore.'
Official Responses and Investigations
The police officer leading the investigation has already branded the full away allocation arrangement unsafe. Meanwhile, fan groups have criticized policing and stewarding, claiming insufficient numbers failed to prevent the pitch invasion.
Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown stated: 'I condemn the appalling behaviour of those fans who invaded the pitch and acted in a violent and a disorderly manner. Disorder of this nature is not acceptable and risks the safety of players, fans, stewards, and police officers.'
First Minister John Swinney added: 'The violence after the Old Firm game on Sunday at Ibrox was completely and utterly unacceptable—there is no justification for it whatsoever. There was severe danger applied to fans, police officers, and stewards.'
Long-Term Implications for Scottish Football
The incidents, which included Celtic fans entering Ibrox without tickets and graffiti referencing the 1971 Ibrox disaster, are expected to lead to stricter security measures and reduced away fan numbers in future Old Firm fixtures. Souness and O'Neill both emphasized that while the passion of supporters defines these institutions, the actions of a few have jeopardized the tradition for all.
