Rangers captain James Tavernier has urged fans to stay away from next week’s Old Firm derby at Celtic Park.
The fixture due to be played next Sunday has been under threat since thousands of the Ibrox club’s fans broke lockdown rules to celebrate their Premiership title victory.
Fans congregated in large numbers at Ibrox Park and George Square in the city centre after Steven Gerrard’s men clinched the club’s first league title in ten years.
In a video posted to social media Tavernier thanked fans for their support but stressed how important it is for them to “stay at home” and “not gather in crowds” during the game against Celtic.
The 29-year-old right back said: “As captain of Rangers it is a huge honour to represent the best fans in the world.
“I want to highlight how important is for you all to stay at home next weekend, please don’t gather in crowds especially near the stadium or the city centre.
“We want nothing more than to have you with us next Sunday but we know you are right behind us.
“Please stay home and stay safe.”
Twenty eight people were arrested following last Sunday’s celebrations that led to several memorial benches in George Square being damaged and a nearby Celtic shop window being smashed.
The Parkhead side have also urged fans to stay away from the stadium next week and metal barriers have been erected as an extra precaution.
A statement released on Friday said: “Given the damage caused to club property recently, the club has already taken steps to enhance security and protection of our property at Celtic Park.”
A decision on whether next Sunday’s game can go ahead will be made early next week.
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