Rangers are to release a statement tomorrow regarding the racism controversy enveloping club captain Lorenzo Amoruso. Ibrox officials were maintaining a discreet silence today after the Italian defender was allegedly caught on television mouthing abuse at Nigerian striker Victor Ikpeba. The incident happened during Rangers' UEFA Cup exit away to Borussia Dortmund.
Neither Ikpeba nor Borussia will be making an official complaint but the matter is deeply embarrassing for the Glasgow giants.
Ikpeba, who opened the scoring in the 29th minute, was a danger to the Rangers defence throughout the game and constantly complained about the tackling. Amoruso has refused to comment on the allegations. However club spokesman, Martin Bain issued a brief statement, which said that any allegations made against the football playing staff would be considered and if necessary dealt with internally by the manager, which is standard practice.
The controversy capped a black night for the Scottish champions who crashed out of the UEFA Cup on penalties, as Dortmund won 3-1 on penalties after the tie ended level 2-2 on aggregate. Dortmund 'keeper Jens Lehmann was the hero of the night, joining a last minute attack to mis-kick the ball to Fredi Bobic who snatched the second goal on the night to bring the tie to extra time. When that period yielded no goals the 'keeper went on to save three of Rangers spot kicks.
