Yesterday, Rangers called upon a total boycott of Tannadice tie to be played in February, whereby they urge their fans not to attain the clash in a protect over United and other SPL clubs’ verbal opposition on Rangers application to join Scottish Premier League. The protest taken by Rangers is not only a planned protest against some of the SPL clubs, but it has become one of the biggest protests in the history of Scottish league. Perhaps, if such a protest happens, United could face a mass boycott for their William Hill Scottish Cup clash against Dundee United. But, unexpectedly, United has refused to indulge in any war of the words with Ally McCoist’s side; however, they want Scottish FA to clarify over the issue. Since, Ibrox chief executive Charles Green has a feeling that certain SPL clubs are trying to harm Rangers, their protest is obligatory. Scottish FA has decided to take the issue in their meeting to be held on Thursday.
Moreover, Rangers fans have a strong belief that it is Stephen Thompson who is warming the issue by his outspoken language, and more importantly, his refusal to refund Ranger fans for an abandoned match played at Tannadice in November 2009. United is also equally concerned by the massive protest of its tie with Dundee United. It issued a statement that reads as, “It is with huge disappointment that we read both the content and tone of the statement from Rangers, stating that they will not be taking any tickets for our Scottish Cup tie in February and urging their supporters not to attend. However, we do not intend to enter into a war of words with Rangers or to dignify their position by responding in kind.
“We have noted their decision not to take any tickets for this cup tie and will now act accordingly in arranging the match. The statement from the Rangers makes it clear that their fans should not attend. We have therefore raised a number of related matters with the Scottish FA and will be making no further public statement until their advice has been received.”
Moreover, United’s fans have also jumped into the controversy and said “In a time when Scottish football needs to look to the future and how we can rebuild our game, it’s sad that some parties choose to refer to past alleged indiscretions against their club as an excuse to not attend the match.”
So, we all hope for an immediate solution for this issue, else there will be a big mess in SPL coming February.