Steve Clarke has bravely spoken out about receiving sectarian abuse last night, in a post-match press conference that will be of interest to every Celtic supporter.
The Kilmarnock boss took charge against Rangers at Ibrox in the Scottish Cup, witnessing his side again being on the end of a number of shocking referee decisions, before being personally abused by supporters.
He was not happy in the press room after the game, delivering extraordinary comments that will spark debate in Scottish football and wider Scottish society for days to come.
As quoted by The Scottish Sun, he said:
If the penalty had been given in the first two minutes it would have been different. The red card is a joke. If that’s the standards we might as well go home. Why speak?
It’s every week, every other week. Why? You’ll probably write Morelos four goals but the officials decided the game.
It’s embarrassing. The goalie just lifted his arms. Every goalie does it every week. It’s embarrassing. I’m talking in general, bad decisions. All we talk about is our refs. How can I talk about football tonight?
It’s nice being back in the west of Scotland – really nice.
When I was approached by Rangers about taking over the job here I was assured, nah, we didn’t have that in the west of Scotland anymore and it had gone. Hahaha.
They can call me a b*****d or w****r but to call me a Fenian b*****d? Come on.
We’re living in the dark ages. They’re not allowed to call my assistant a black B but they can call me a Fenian b*****d. Is that correct?
What are we doing in Scotland?
I wake up every morning and I thank Chelsea for taking me away from the West.
My children have had nothing to do with this thankfully. My children and grandchildren.
It’s fantastic to be back in Scotland.
Clarke then walked out of the press conference leaving stunned journalists in silence to comprehend what had just happened.
Rarely do managers or players speak so openly and honestly about not just referees in Scotland, but also the abuse they receive on a regular basis.
Clearly the Kilmarnock boss felt last night crossed a line for him personally and you have to say fair play for him standing up to extreme abuse at Ibrox.
It’ll be interesting to see how this is reported by the media and handled by authorities over the next few days. Surely the Kilmarnock manager has to be backed?
Celtic fans will at least have massive sympathy for him. We can only hope this sort of thing doesn’t drive the talented manager away from the Scottish game back to England.