RANGERS finally broke their silence after supporters went on a rampage in Glasgow, as police launched a probe into a video which appears to show players taking part in sectarian chanting.

The club condemned a “small minority” of fans who it says “besmirched” its reputation. Five police officers were injured in the chaos in Glasgow city centre on Saturday, with 28 people arrested as they were dispersed from George Square.

There was fighting on the streets, with several assaults taking place, property damaged, flares thrown at officers and fans were also heard chanting anti-Catholic songs.

It comes as a viral video began to do the rounds yesterday which appeared to show Rangers players taking part in sectarian chanting during celebrations. Rangers reportedly think the footage is fake and the clip is now being investigated by Police Scotland.

Rangers FC said in a statement: “We are grateful to Scottish Government officials, Glasgow City Council and Police Scotland for the constructive engagement in the lead-up to the weekend’s game. We worked closely with the authorities for two weeks before Saturday’s match to ensure a consistency of message.

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“Sadly, a small minority of people behaved inappropriately and in a manner not reflective of our support. Some of the scenes were unacceptable and have besmirched the good name of Rangers Football Club. These so-called ‘fans’ should reflect upon the values and ethos of our club, and consider the damage this does to the reputation of the club. We will continue to engage with authorities as required.”

The statement came as Deputy First Minister John Swinney branded the behaviour of Rangers fans “absolutely reprehensible” after thousands defied Covid-19 warnings against large gatherings in George Square on Saturday.

Swinney told BBC Good Morning Scotland: “There was absolutely no need for them to gather, absolutely no need whatsoever and the warnings were given very clearly ... and then some of them went on to behave in a loutish and thuggish fashion in George Square – devastating property, circulating and expressing vile anti-Catholic bigotry in the centre of the city of Glasgow.

“Police officers were assaulted on Saturday, which is completely unacceptable and obviously that will be a matter which is pursued vigorously by Police Scotland and so it should be and there’ll be various actions taken to address the behaviour and the conduct of the fans on Saturday.”

A spokesperson for Show Racism The Red Card said: “Our education charity is saddened to receive hundreds of videos since Saturday containing hateful and racist language aimed at Scotland’s Irish Catholic communities. Religious intolerance and xenophobia must never be allowed to become normalised.

“Anti-Irish and anti-Catholic hatred in all its forms must be challenged and treated with the seriousness it deserves, in order to create a safer society for all.

“We must do better so we can achieve a future free from racism and prejudice.

“These videos have been passed to Police Scotland.”

Police Scotland also confirmed yesterday that it has set up a dedicated team and online portal to investigate the “violence and disorder” during celebrations on Saturday.

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A spokesman for the force said: “We are aware of a video circulating on social media apparently showing Rangers players using sectarian language while celebrating on Saturday.

“We are assessing its contents and will liaise with the Crown Office.”

A Rangers spokesperson last night hit out at a “trial by social media”. He said: “It is deeply concerning that this video has been taken as genuine and has been shared widely including by some political representatives who should be mindful of their influence and legal processes.

“We are confident that no criminality took place.”