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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

Union Bears unveil fresh Rangers protest at Ibrox ahead of Dundee United clash

Rangers ultras the Union Bears have unveiled a fresh protest ahead of this afternoon's Premiership clash against Dundee United.

The group have made their feelings public about managing director Stewart Robertson and sporting director Ross Wilson in recent weeks.

Before the international break supporters held up banners with the faces of the pair on them, crossed out with a red stripe, saying ‘Time for Change’.

At the last Premiership game against Kilmarnock at Ibrox, the Union Bears held up banners aimed at the board which read: “After 55 titles you took your eye off the ball, time for change”, so there appears to be momentum building.

Today similar-style banners have been placed on advertising boards at Ibrox ahead of the Dundee United fixture.

Manager Michael Beale, in a difficult position, insists the protests have not yet affected the dressing room but continuing off-field issues will not help in the run-in to the end of the season. 

Defending Wilson, he said: “I’ve always worked well with Ross. He came in when I was previously at the club and he was influential in bringing me back.

“We work fantastically well together every day. He’s a 24/7 football person, similar to myself, so we have the same energy.

“We’re off working and looking at players. The two of us control the atmosphere in the training ground. We’re the two main figures there.

“I understand the fans’ frustration but they don’t know everything that goes on and the work that goes in at the club.

“I understand they pay their money and pack out every away ground at home and in Europe.

“They have a right to – in the right way – put across their opinion. But since I came back the form of the team has been really good.

“Before, they can be disgruntled. But now we’re looking forward and moving forward. I’d prefer it if we were on the same page.

“I think the work going on behind the scenes towards next season is exciting. It can’t all be revealed now.

“We’re trying to make the fans happy. I understand their frustrations but I think we’re much stronger when we’re all together.

“There are enough people outside of Rangers who don’t want us to do well so let’s make sure we’re together.”

The Union Bears also confirmed that they would be holding a collection at today's fixture to help with legal fees following last month's League Cup final against Celtic.

A statement read: "As always we will have donation buckets situated in and around the stadium.

"This week though the proceeds won't be going toward tifos but to support our members undergoing legal proceedings following the events we all saw at Hampden last month.

"Please donate generously any amount big or small is appreciated. Our stall can also be found in the usual place from 2-2:45pm with t-shirts, hats, scarves and other items available."

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