Rangers Football Club has responded to the Covid rule-flouting gatherings of fans celebrating its Premiership win.
There were 28 arrests and seven fixed penalty notices handed out on Sunday after supporters flocked in their thousands to George Square in Glasgow.
The scenes were condemned by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who said the fans were putting the planned loosening of lockdown restrictions at risk.
She tweeted: “I share folks’ anger at this. Everyone has made so many sacrifices in the past year and seeing a minority risk our progress is infuriating and disgraceful.”
Police said it was a “difficult” night but that officers had planned for it.
A statement from the club read: “During the last number of weeks, Rangers can confirm that we initiated open dialogue with key stakeholders in relation to the possibility of us achieving a historic 55th league title.
“We have proactively engaged with our local MP, the Justice Minister, the Scottish Government, Police Scotland and the SPFL in relation to maintaining a cohesive message regarding public safety during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We understand the jubilance of our support across the world who recognise this has been a historic year for the club.
“Nevertheless, it has been of great frustration for all football fans across the world that they have not been able to watch their team within stadiums, especially for the loyal Rangers season-ticket holders who have stood by this football club through thick and thin in the last decade.
“We reiterate the message from our manager, Steven Gerrard, who highlighted that fans should adhere to government guidelines – stay safe, socially distance and look after each other in this difficult time.
“We are aware there is the possibility of more, significant milestones within this season, and we will continue to proactively engage with key stakeholders to maintain a cohesive message in relation to government guidance at this present time.
“We look forward to further open dialogue with the government, police, SPFL and other key stakeholders.”
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