Kevin Clancy has seemingly been taken out of the Old Firm firing line for this weekend's action after a powder-keg derby.
The experienced whistler was hailed by both Ange Postecoglou and Michael Beale following Saturday's 3-2 victory for the Hoops at Celtic Park but what has followed has sparked major controversy. Rangers wrote to the SFA to seek clarification on Clancy's decision, and that of VAR official Nick Walsh, as to why Alfredo Morelos' goal was chopped off for a foul. The Ibrox club then revealed their 'astonishment' at the response that the correct decision was made.
SFA chief Ian Maxwell then revealed the official had received 'potentially criminal' messages of abuse following the game. Now Clancy has been handed a role as VAR official for Livingston's clash with St Johnstone.
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Meanwhile Steven McLean will be supported by VAR Andrew Dallas as Rangers take on St Mirren, and Celtic's trip to Kilmarnock will be officiated by David Dickinson and the VAR official is Alan Muir.
Maxwell said on the abuse of Clancy: "The nature of the messages goes way beyond criticism of performance and perceived decision-making - some are potentially criminal in nature and include threats and abuse towards Kevin and his family.
“We have referred the correspondence to the police and condemn this behaviour in the strongest possible terms, as well as the posting of a referee’s personal details online with the sole purpose of causing distress."
The Rangers statement read: “Firstly, Rangers condemn in the strongest terms any abuse of match officials. We are all passionate about or game, but targeted, personal abuse of referees cannot be tolerated. The club can confirm the Scottish FA has responded with regards to the disallowed Alfredo Morelos goal, with the response claiming the correct decision was made.
"The club can confirm the Scottish FA has responded with regards to the disallowed Alfredo Morelos goal, with the response claiming the correct decision was made.
"The club is astonished by this, especially given most observers, including former referees and former players, could see no issue with the goal standing.
“This comes following a weekend in England where PGMOL have offered an apology to Brighton and Hove Albion for the non-award of a penalty in their match with Tottenham Hotspur, alongside a pledge to review the incident.
“While an apology does not alter the outcome of a match, such responsibility and openness would be welcome in Scotland.”
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