Celtic to face disciplinary action over anti-monarchy banner but Rangers not charged

Rangers will not face disciplinary action over the singing of the national anthem at Ibrox but Celtic will be in the dock over banners displayed by their fans.

Both clubs were in action in the Champions League on Wednesday, their first competitive games since the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Rangers observed a minute’s silence ahead of their home game against Napoli, following it with a rendition of God Save The King. That went against UEFA’s directive that the national anthem should not be played at any games.

Despite defying the governing body, the Ibrox club will not face any further action, with the tournament organisers saying the “pre-match ceremony” is not the subject of any UEFA disciplinary proceedings.

Celtic had travelled to Poland for their match against Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk, with the players wearing black armbands as a mark of respect.

However, supporters unveiled two banners that leave the club facing punishment, with one reading “F*** the Crown” and a second “Sorry for your loss Michael Fagan”. Fagan 74, broke into Buckingham Palace twice in 1982, managing to enter the Queen’s bedroom.

A UEFA spokesperson told STV: “Proceedings have been opened against Celtic FC regarding a banner displayed during their UEFA Champions League match against FC Shakhtar Donetsk played on September 14 in Warsaw”.

No date has yet been set for a disciplinary hearing.