Why Fabio Silva's Rangers celebration WASN'T aimed at fans as Portuguese media explode over 'too much talk' jab

Rangers' Fabio Silva celebrates
Rangers' Fabio Silva celebrates -Credit:PA


Forward Fabio Silva did NOT aim his celebration at Rangers fans following his strike against Kilmarnock, according to reports.

The Wolves loanee has attempted to explain the bizarre talking point after finding the net at Ibrox during the Scottish Premiership - with media in the Portuguese U21 international's homeland now picking up on the backlash from punters. Silva netted his fifth goal for the since his January switch from the English Premier League on Sunday and turned to show his name on the back of his shirt while raising the shoulders towards the crowd.

He then appeared to make a "yapping" gesture before he was mobbed by his teammates - with Philippe Clement's men going on to run out 4-1 winners over Derek McInnes' side. However, the celebration raised eyebrows of the Rangers' support who felt it was a jab at the home crowd - some of whom have been critical of the £35million attacker since his loan switch north of the border.

A source close to the player has explained the gestures. They told Football Scotland: "Fabio is very professional and would never do anything against the club he represents. That movement of the shirt is: 'I'm here. Talk a lot, but I'm here.'"

The discussion in Scotland has now made the breakthrough in Portugal with A Bola stating that Silva had made a "controversial" motion to the crowd that signalled "there is too much talk". The incident was described as "bizarre" as Futebol Divertido also left baffled.

The Portuguese publication claimed that the 21-year-old has "provoked" the Rangers fans following heavy criticism of his loan spell. However, they insist he could still be "crucial" in chasing Celtic down at the Premiership summit.