Northern Ireland

Polish Pope banner may add to Old Firm tensions

Legia Warsaw fans unveil a banner of Pope John Paul II and one that reads 'Be Not Afraid' during the UEFA Europa League match at Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Picture by Jane Barlow/PA Wire
Legia Warsaw fans unveil a banner of Pope John Paul II and one that reads 'Be Not Afraid' during the UEFA Europa League match at Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Picture by Jane Barlow/PA Wire

TENSIONS among rival fans at today's Old Firm meeting may be intensified by what is being seen as a provocative taunting of Rangers fans by European rivals on Thursday evening.

Polish side Legia Warsaw fans unfurled a huge banner of Pope John Paul II prior to their Europa League qualifier at Ibrox.

Rangers has historically strong Protestant links while rivals Celtic are traditionally supported by the city's Catholic side.

Legia fans were described on social media as 'trolling' Rangers with the banner before what was a pivotal game for both clubs.

A section of Ibrox is closed for the match due to sectarian chants heard during the Rangers' win over St Joseph's last month.