Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson has stressed that fans’ group ArabTRUST acted independently of the club when reporting Rangers supporters for alleged sectarian singing.
Putting distance between the actions of the trust and United, Thompson also highlighted the healthy relationship between the Tangerines and Light Blues.
ArabTRUST have complained to the SPL, SFA and the police about away supporters’ chanting during Rangers’ 4-0 win at Tannadice on Tuesday night.
That follows UEFA’s decision to charge the Glasgow club for alleged sectarian singing during the recent Europa League matches against PSV Eindhoven.
The feeling at Tannadice is it would be better to avoid getting involved in such matters at this sensitive time, with letter bombs having been sent to Celtic boss Neil Lennon and other prominent supporters of the Parkhead club.
Indeed, Thompson is understood to have contacted both Rangers and the SPL yesterday to stress ArabTRUST were not speaking on behalf of United.
“I am aware of what ArabTRUST have said,” commented Thompson, who was at the launch of the club’s new season ticket package at Tannadice.
Thompson added, “They are entitled to whatever view they want to have but they do not represent Dundee United. ArabTRUST are not speaking on behalf of the football club.
“We have a good relationship with Rangers and all clubs are working hard to eradicate sectarianism.”
Thompson went on to praise United fans for their support of the team and urged them to continue to back them by purchasing season tickets for next season.
He insisted that, while there will have to be some financial pruning done in the summer, the 2011-12 campaign still holds plenty of promise.
“The fans have been terrific and they are crucial to our future,” he said. “That future can be a bright one and, while there has been a big thing made about the amount of players leaving, I would point out that from the team that beat Rangers at Ibrox recently 10 from the 11 will be here next season.
“Also, our manager Peter Houston will be looking to bring players in during the transfer window. So I am confident the team will continue to flourish next season.
“We need our supporters to get behind us and the various offers contained within the package are designed to generate a structured income stream for the club and provide fans with considerable savings on gate prices.
“Also, we have once more frozen the under-12s’ prices at £40 as it is vital that we encourage as many young people as possible to attend games and that these youngsters can come along to Tannadice in the knowledge they will be witness to plenty of excitement and entertaining football.”
As well as the £40 offer for under-12s, the Early Bird scheme, which begins on Monday, has adult prices starting at £299, senior citizens from £185, while under-18s can buy their books for £125.
Meanwhile, United will be boosted by the return of Keith Watson to the team for tomorrow’s home against Kilmarnock.
With full-backs Mihael Kovacevic, Sean Dillon and Paul Dixon all suspended along with midfielder Morgaro Gomis having Watson available will be a major boost.