Gregory Campbell has called for an end to what he described as the “hostilities” at Glasgow Rangers Football Club.
Rangers fan Gregory Campbell.
The East Derry MP, who is also vice-chairman of the Westminster Rangers Supporters Club, was speaking ahead of the club’s annual general meeting which takes place this Thursday.
Mr Campbell said fans were demanding “a line be drawn under” the recent internal problems within the club and for “hostilities” to end.
Mr Campbell said: “Rangers Football Club has many tens of thousands of supporters in Northern Ireland with millions more across the world. The Club’s recent financial problems have been well documented and the Club has been climbing back up through the lower leagues.
“One of the most significant off field developments in the Club’s 141 year history will occur on Thursday when the AGM of the company takes place against the backdrop of numerous share purchases and statements about who is controlling whom behind the scenes.
“Having spoken to Rangers fans in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, both influential and those who would just regard themselves as ‘ordinary’ supporters, there is absolute unanimity on a demand from all of them for a line to be drawn under recent harmful events.
“I have not detected a massive upsurge in support for any particular individual or group in the run up to the AGM, but there can be no doubt about the determination of those who love, follow and support Rangers that they are not prepared to allow the virtual internecine warfare off the pitch to go on adversely affecting the club.”
Mr Campbell said there appeared to be a recognition by some of those involved in the dispute that the fans were “prepared to act.”
He added: “None of the fans however want to harm the club but the longer term interests and success of Rangers are at the heart of their interests. Boycotts of merchandise and direct action must be avoided, and the people who can ensure that these types of actions are avoided, are those involved in the dispute that must end on Thursday.”
Mr Campbell concluded: “The fans are not just asking for an end to the ‘hostilities’ they are demanding that they end. Everyone, either currently in the Boardroom or trying to get into it, must listen to that demand.”
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