Rangers women's coach Craig McPherson has issued a public apology after he allegedly headbutted Celtic boss Fran Alonso during this week's Old Firm derby.
McPherson was charged by the Scottish FA over his alleged headbutt on Alonso at the end of Monday’s match at Broadwood Stadium.
The incident, the subject of police enquiries, occurred at full-time after the Hoops had scored a late equaliser in the 1-1 draw.
McPherson will face an SFA hearing on April 13 after being deemed to have breached disciplinary rules.
In a statement McPherson said: "I would like to offer a full and unreserved apology for my actions at end of Monday's Old Firm match at Broadwood.
"I know I have severely let myself, our team and the club down. I hold myself to the highest of standards and have never done anything like this before in a long coaching career, and I know I fell way short of that with my actions.
"This club is also built on incredibly high standards, and I have already apologised to the board, the football staff, and our fantastic group of players who I care about dearly. I would also like to apologise to the Rangers fans as I am aware of what a privilege it is to represent this club in any capacity, and I am sorry that on this occasion I did not uphold the standards this club demands.
"I also understand how exciting a time it is for the women's game in Scotland, which I have come to care passionately about, and I apologise for any negativity my actions have brought in our attempts to grow the game. Finally, I am also very grateful to Fran Alonso for accepting my apology in full following our lengthy conversation earlier in the week.
"I will also apologise to the Scottish FA at my hearing and will, of course, accept in full, whatever punishment they deem appropriate. I simply want to apologise today, convey my massive regret and explain how out of character this moment has been for me."
Yesterday Michael Beale described McPherson’s part in the incident with Alonso as “out of character”.
He added: “I didn’t see it live. I haven’t seen it since, I have obviously been told about it.
“I know with the SFA and Rangers there is an ongoing discussion around it.
“All I would say on Craig is that it is out of character for him. I think everyone who knows him in Scotland, knows him as a man, (knows) it is out of character.
“The SFA, the club and Craig are away having discussions about it. I personally haven’t spoken to him on it.”
