Former Rangers striker and Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd has launched a furious response to comments made by Martin O’Neill, the current manager of Celtic FC, regarding their fierce rivals Rangers FC.
O’Neill sparked controversy during a recent press conference when he suggested that Rangers still had “a long way to go” before they could match the level of consistency and dominance Celtic have built in Scottish football in recent seasons. The remark quickly spread across media platforms and did not sit well with many in the Rangers camp.
Boyd, known for his passionate defence of the Ibrox club, did not hold back when asked about the Celtic boss’ statement.
“I think it’s disrespectful, simple as that,” Boyd said. “Rangers are a massive football club with a huge history. To speak about them in that manner is unnecessary and it only stirs things up.”
The former Rangers forward insisted that while rivalry between the Glasgow giants is inevitable, comments from a manager of O’Neill’s stature should carry a bit more caution.
“You expect that kind of talk from fans, not necessarily from someone managing one of the biggest clubs in the country. Rangers have proven time and time again that they can compete at the highest level.”
Boyd also pointed out that the Old Firm rivalry thrives on competitiveness and mutual respect, warning that dismissive comments can quickly inflame tensions between the two fan bases.
“These two clubs push each other to be better. That’s what makes the rivalry special. But when you start dismissing what the other club is capable of, you’re asking for a reaction.”
The remarks have already triggered a wave of debate across Scottish football, with supporters of both Rangers FC and Celtic FC fiercely defending their sides online.
As the season continues, this latest war of words has only added more heat to one of football’s most intense rivalries—ensuring that the next Old Firm showdown will come with even more drama attached. ⚽🔥