Murray apology to Dundee clubs for distress over web abuse row

RANGERS chairman Sir David Murray has apologised to Dundee and Dundee United over the "distress" caused by his condemnation of abusive remarks made by football supporters.

The Ibrox owner was at the centre of controversy when he said comments made on internet messageboards from fans of other clubs were "just as bad" as Celtic and Rangers, making specific reference to Dundee and Dundee United. This prompted both clubs to issue a joint statement decrying any association with sectarianism, but the Rangers chairman immediately clarified his comments, underlining the fact no mention of sectarianism had been made in his interview.

Now Dundee United director Derek Robertson insists the matter is at an end after a personal telephone call from Murray yesterday morning. "David Murray telephoned me this morning to offer his personal apology for any distress caused as a consequence of the article," Robertson told BBC Scotland. "Mr Murray went on to explain that his comments were taken out of context and that at no time did he mean to infer that there were any sectarian issues between the two Dundee clubs and their respective supporters. This apology and explanation has been accepted and we now consider this matter to be at an end."

Murray also released a statement on the Rangers website, warning that an "obsession" with sectarianism is casting a shadow over the Scottish game.

The Rangers chairman said: "It is absolutely right that fans' behaviour comes under scrutiny, but it now seems to becoming an obsession in the media and political arenas as well as amongst supporters. We are facing the real possibility of losing sight of the bigger picture, which is that watching football in Scotland is generally safe and must be a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

"On Saturday at Ibrox we had more than 100 servicemen and women recently returned from Iraq and Afghanistan as our guests. They were given a tremendous welcome and reception.

"We were also delighted to support the annual Show Racism the Red Card initiative which has helped make Scotland a place where racism is nowhere near as prevalent an issue as it is elsewhere. However, you would not think Scotland has emerged from the dark ages in terms of racism or sectarianism when you see the endless obsession with these issues."

Murray added: "No-one wants to see any kind of anti-social behaviour, but there should be a sense of proportion. The reality is that sectarianism and racism are not the problems they once were in this country. I think most people would share my view that social ills such as drugs and obesity are now more burning issues. It would be absurd to suggest these problems do not exist, but we need to put them in perspective.

"We are left wondering what impact this continual fixation will have on the reputation of Scottish football and can only conclude that it will be negative and damaging.

"When I took over this club 20 years ago there were fundamental problems and I think there is general recognition we have travelled a long way since then. We have a lot to be proud of about the game in Scotland and we should keep a sense of perspective on the issues and challenges we all face."