SPFL condemns 'disgraceful' coin-throwing at Rangers v Celtic and calls for banning orders

The Scottish Professional Football League has asked fans to help identify individuals who threw missiles during Thursday’s Old Firm derby, and want those responsible to be dealt with “severely” by the courts.

Celtic midfielder Arne Engels was struck by a coin thrown from the Rangers support during his side’s 3-0 defeat at Ibrox, with manager Brendan Rodgers saying that “an inch lower, he would have been hit right in the eye”.

A spokesman for the SPFL said: “This behaviour is completely unacceptable, and we fully support any steps taken to identify those responsible for such idiotic, criminal acts.

“The dangers of so-called supporters throwing such items onto the pitch are obvious and anyone found guilty of such disgraceful conduct must be dealt with severely by the courts, including the imposition of football banning orders.

“We await the match delegate’s report, and we would urge any fans with relevant information to contact Police Scotland.”

A dispute between the Glasgow clubs means there were no Celtic fans at Ibrox for Thursday’s game and Rangers have pledged to support the police as they look to identify those responsible.

“Rangers FC condemns this incident in the strongest possible terms,” a spokesman said. “The club can confirm it will assist Police Scotland with their investigation.”

Celtic have said that Police Scotland is investigating more than one incident, with an object also thrown at their manager during the match.

A spokesperson for Celtic said: “We understand that Police Scotland are currently investigating two separate incidents.

“The repeated targeting of our players and staff with missiles is quite appalling and completely unacceptable.”

The SPFL does have powers to bring disciplinary charges against Rangers for the behaviour of supporters but is unlikely to confirm any action or investigation until their match delegates report has been received.

Following the full-time whistle at Ibrox, Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston had called for fans to “respect” players.

Canada defender Johnston said: “I saw that he (Engels) got hit just above the eye, and it’s an unfortunate situation.

“We’re just lucky that it didn’t hit him right in the eye. No other comment right now.

“I’ve played in some other places in Central America where they throw more than coins at you. You feel pretty safe here.

“Ideally you don’t want anything thrown on the pitch.

“The words and chants, you get through that.

“But you just hope everyone respects the players on the pitch no matter who they play for.

“I wasn’t aware (of anything else being thrown) but it’s something that unfortunately happens.

“If that hits him in the eye then it’s probably a pretty serious matter but I would just caution everyone to be smart.

“It’s humans out there, someone’s son, so let’s refrain from chucking things at guys’ heads.”