Aberdeen ace Dominic Ball says bigots are sucking the fun out of Scottish football.
The Dons star spoke out after his manager Derek McInnes was subjected to more sectarian abuse during the weekend loss to Celtic .
McInnes was stuck in the Pittodrie stand for the contest as he served a suspension for reacting to “sad orange b*****d” songs aimed at him from the Parkhead support during last month’s William Hill Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden.
Celtic face SPFL probe sweat over 'sad Orange b*****d' Derek McInnes chant
The chants were repeated in the Granite City and Celtic may face an SPFL grilling with the incident set to be mentioned in the delegate’s report.
Ball reckons the good name of the Scottish game is being tarnished and said: “It’s disappointing. I’ve always said Scottish football is full of passion.
“It’s different to down south and there is a passion that makes every game fun.
“The sectarianism is something that brings it down a bit and, hopefully, as we go forward, that disappears.
“I think things will change. It’s like down south with the racism at Raheem Sterling. As players we have to try to ignore it and play our football.”
Neil Lennon blasts Celtic fans' 'sad Orange b*****d' chants towards Derek McInnes
McInnes heard the singing and added: “Of course I heard it. I have been hearing it for years.
“The question should be: Are other people hearing it? It is not going to change. It is what it is.
“I think there has been a missed opportunity to send out the right message. I served my punishment and will be glad to get back in the dugout.”
Celtic boss Neil Lennon was irritated with the chants and said: “I am disappointed to say the least.
“I am disappointed for Derek because I know what a great guy he is. He is a great football man with great integrity.”
