Rangers are preparing for a huge Euro clash in Belgium but the alleged attendance of their players at a banned bash has dominated the headlines at Ibrox.
Record Sport columnist Barry Ferguson hit out at the behaviour of the Covidiots while footballers in general again felt the wrath of Nicola Sturgeon and St Mirren boss Jim Goodwin warned rule-breakers could get the season stopped.
It’s the last thing Steven Gerrard needs ahead of their Europa League last-32 first leg tie against Royal Antwerp while they also close in on the title.
There was no escape on the Hotline either for the unnamed and allegedly partying Gers stars following Jordan Jones and George Edmundson who were hit with seven-game bans earlier in the season and have since been sent out on loan.
Alfie Mullin, London, said: “If it is true that Rangers players were allegedly at a lockdown party then the club should throw the book at the Covidiots.
“Just as everything is going so well in the league, these dumplings are doing their damnedest to sabotage everything. Maybe they should have some homeschooling on the rules.”
Douglas Allison, Fauldhouse, said: “Rangers should terminate the contracts of any player involved in this alleged illegal party as these elite sports people think they can do what they want and footballers could get the season shut down.”
Stevie Delaney, St Andrews , said: “If true it’s shocking behaviour yet again from Rangers players allegedly attending parties. If it turns out to be true and they're dishing out penalties James Tavernier is sure to be around.”
Andy Adams, Kirkcaldy, said: “I know exactly how Nicola Sturgeon feels when she says she feels like swearing when it comes to the behaviour of footballers.
“I get the same feeling when I see her on TV every day. The only difference is that I do use expletives! The same woman isn’t long in using the national teams to her advantage when it suits her.”
Gerrard spoke of the sacrifices he has made to become a success at Gers in a wide-ranging interview with former Anfield team-mate Robbie Fowler.
He is being tipped as potential successor to current Anfield gaffer Jurgen Klopp but Seamus Gallagher, Govan, said: “I’m in stitches at Steven Gerrard being quoted as Jurgen Klopp’s replacement, if he the German departs Anfield.
“I can categorically reassure everyone that Liverpool would need a hand-knitted replacement should the unthinkable happen and Klopp leaves.
“There are many more ‘Liverpool men’ better qualified than Gerrard to take the job. So what makes people think an apprentice, serving his time in Scottish football and who has won nothing in the game, would even get a mention in Anfield circles?
“P.S The man who was a hero of mine at Liverpool.”
Celtic chairman Ian Bankier admitted the club was continuing its review after announcing a pre-tax loss of almost £6 million for the six months to December 31.
Muir Fulton, Ayr, said: “I predicted months ago on the Hotline that Celtic were in financial trouble with their large wage bill, no Champions League money coming in and only Odsonne Edouard left to bring in serious money but PSG claiming 40 per cent thanks to a sell-on clause.
“So my advice to Celtic is for them to sell Rangers their Champions League disco lights as at least that will be a permanent deal and not a loan.”
Martin Baird, Glasgow, said: “Celtic’s new financial report shows that not only is their house of cards collapsing, it is on fire as well.
“A financial crisis at a time where they require a costly total rebuild of their squad and management in order to get anywhere near a mighty, unbeaten Rangers whose success makes us richer and stronger.
“Isn’t it amazing how quickly this Old Firm tide has fully turned? Now it’s time to enjoy the blue years once again.”
