NafisaRangers have been requested by the SPFL to clarify how a controversial banner was permitted to be displayed ahead of Sunday’s Scottish Premiership clash with Celtic.
The tifo appeared to depict an image of former Rangers boss Graeme Souness wielding a firearm.
The incident was noted in the match official’s report.
Rangers have also been asked to respond to reports of objects, including a glass bottle, allegedly being thrown onto the field from the stands.
Shortly after the 1-1 stalemate, Rangers issued a statement denouncing the act of bottle-throwing and confirmed that efforts were underway to identify the individual responsible.
The club also labelled the banner as “unacceptable”.
Sunday’s fixture marked the first Old Firm match at Ibrox with travelling supporters present since January 2023.
‘It wasn’t just a bottle – there were lighters, vapes, coins, mugs, all sorts’:
The bottle landed near Celtic shot-stopper Viljami Sinisalo during the second half, prompting Rangers substitute Neraysho Kasanwirjo—who had been warming up nearby—to step onto the pitch and remove it.
On Friday, Sinisalo stated that additional items were hurled in his direction.
“First of all, I was hit with something in my lower leg,” said the Finn. “It wasn’t just a bottle, there was lighters, vapes, coins, mugs, all sorts.
“Let’s say that glass bottle hits me or hits someone else, what happens next? What if it hits you in the eye and you can’t play football after that.
“Those are the questions that we need answers for.”
When Rangers and Celtic faced off at Ibrox in January, an object was launched from the crowd and struck visiting midfielder Arne Engels, who needed medical attention.
“It’s not the first time it’s happened,” added Sinisalo. “I was there when Arne was hit, [team-mate] Greg [Taylor] has been hit, [former Celtic keeper] Joe Hart’s been hit, staff members have been hit.
“It’s up to the authorities and the club there. I’m just glad I never got hit because things could be bad if you get hit.”
Acting Rangers head coach Barry Ferguson expressed empathy for Sinisalo, sharing that he had faced a comparable incident in a Europa League tie earlier in the season.
He also shared his concern that such behaviour might lead to supporters being barred from future derby games.
“When bottles come on, that’s something I don’t like to see,” he said. “It can harm a player.
“I’ve seen it in the past with lighters or what not. And I had that issue when I was in Fenerbahce when there was stuff flying past my head. It’s not a nice feeling.
“You’ve got to be careful because the last thing we want to see is fans not being allowed because it’s been far too long.”
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