Rangers slam 'unacceptable' treatment of fans in Nice claiming safety was 'jeopardised'

Rangers have hit out over the "unacceptable" treatment of fans during their Europa League match in France.

In a statement, the Glasgow side expressed concern after "several incidents" where the safety of supporters were "jeopardised."

The Ibrox club said that despite communications with authorities, supporters were let down by a "draconian security operation" from local authorities and by "heavy handed" police.

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The statement said: "For some weeks now, the club has engaged with UEFA, Football Supporters’ Europe (FSE) and the local French authorities, with intelligence suggesting this match had potential to be problematic based on the experiences of other visiting clubs.

"Despite that significant work, our supporters were badly let down by the draconian security operation imposed by the local authorities being poorly organised and executed. This operation was changed on several occasions with no prior warning given to Rangers staff on the ground.

"Much of the communication provided to Rangers in advance also proved to be incorrect, with items such as power banks taken for storage during the match.

"The heavy-handed tactics used by the local police force were also unwarranted and caused serious distress for many of our supporters."

The statement went onto say that the club remains in dialogue with UEFA and FSE and is asking supporters affected by the events to contact SLO@rangers.co.uk with details, images and video footage.

Rangers also thanked the supporters for their backing on Thursday (November 28) night and for their patience as the issues are dealt with.

Nice Police authorities have since put the blame on the French club for causing trouble during the Europa League match, according to the Daily Record.

It was good news on the pitch however, with Rangers romping to a 4-1 over Nice. The Ibrox club are back in Premiership action on Sunday (November 30) when they face St Johnstone in Perth.

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