Tom Boyd has been ridiculed for his loaded comment aimed at referee John Beaton during a live TV broadcast.
The former Celtic star, who also works as an ambassador for the Parkhead club, was on commentary duty on the club's own channel during the nervy 2-1 Betfred Cup win over Dunfermline.
And the former Scotland international caused controversy as he appeared to question the integrity of the man in the middle after he waved away a Celtic penalty appeal during extra time.
He said live on air: "What does John Beaton not know about the new rules?
"If he doesn't know that's a penalty he shouldn't be in the middle of a park refereeing a football game.
"He's probably welcome down his pub the night again."
Boyd's snipe aimed at the whistler is in relation to an allegation the official allegedly visited the Crown Bar, Bellshill, in the aftermath of Rangers' 1-0 win over Celtic that Beaton refereed.
And his comments have caused controversy with supporters taking the 53-year-old to task after his outburst.
Motown Jack said: "Celtic have recently won the treble Treble.
"They hoover up literally every domestic trophy available and Mr Tom Boyd genuinely believes there is a nationwide conspiracy with the sole intention of stopping Celtic winning football matches."
Stephen Connolly said: "Joking aside. Real Celtic fans must cringe at Tom Boyd."
Davy Clark added: "Does Tom Boyd ever take that tin foil hat off. Absolute space cadet."
But Sean Karte had a different view: "Tom Boyd should be the Celtic manager"
