Rangers coach charged by Scottish FA over 'headbutt' in Celtic match

The Scottish Football Association has charged Rangers WFC coach Craig McPherson with misconduct after he appeared to headbutt Celtic manager Fran Alonso after an SWFL match.

The incident took place in the aftermath of a 1-1 draw between the Glasgow sides at Broadwood Stadium on Monday evening.

Footage that went viral on social media appeared to show Rangers coach McPherson headbutt Celtic manager Alonso in the back of the head as he greeted the players leaving the pitch.

Police opened an investigation into the incident on Tuesday and now football’s governing body have called McPherson to account.

The Rangers coach has been charged under Scottish FA rule 77, which states “A recognised football body, club, official, team official, other member of team staff, player, match official or other person under the jurisdiction of the Scottish FA shall, at all times, act in the best interests of association football.

“Furthermore such person or body shall not act in any manner which is improper or use any one, or a combination of, violent Conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour.”

The guidelines suggest sanctions that begin with a two-match suspension for ‘low-end’ offences, four matches in the middle of the scale and an eight-game ban for serious breaches of the rule. However, in particularly severe cases a longer suspension can be handed down.

McPherson has been called to explain his actions before an independent panel on April 13.

Police Scotland confirmed that enquiries are ongoing into the incident and remain at an early stage.

A spokesperson said: “We have received a report regarding an incident at Broadwood Stadium on the evening of Monday, March 27, 2023.

“Enquiries to establish any criminality are at an early stage.”

A Celtic spokesperson commented: “Clearly this is a hugely concerning incident, falling well below any acceptable standard.

“We understand the matter is now being investigated and it will be up to all relevant authorities to take any appropriate action.”

Rangers FC have been contacted for comment.