UEFA yesterday warned Scottish giants Rangers that if the fans are caught singing sectarian chants again, their doors will be shut for some Europa League home games. 'Gers were found guilty of two charges of improper chanting and fans have been banned from travelling to the first Europa League match next season.
However, there is a chance of a further two-match ban for fans if they are heard using sectarianism again in the next three years.
The club now has the chance to lodge an appeal and chairman Martin Bain said they would consider their options once they receive their written fate from UEFA.
We are bitterly disappointed that Rangers have been placed in a position where we are subjected to these kind of sanctions by UEFA," he said.
"We will consider our position when we receive the written reasons for the decision which are expected in a week or so.
"The club put its own case very forcibly to UEFA and the more draconian sanctions that were recommended by the disciplinary inspector have been mitigated to a degree.
"We condemn sectarianism and there is no doubt the mindless behaviour of an element of our support has exposed Rangers to a very serious situation.
"The people who engage in this type of behaviour are damaging the club they claim to support.
"It is abundantly clear from this decision that if there is any sectarian singing at future matches the suspended bans will take effect. Those fans who engage in such activity need to take that message on board."
