Rangers concerned by 'draconian security operation' in Nice

Rangers have criticised what they call the "draconian security operation" during Thursday's 4-1 Europa League win in Nice.

The Ibrox club say their supporters were caused "serious distress" by the "heavy-handed tactics" used by French police.

Goals from Vaclav Cerny and Mohamed Diomande, before Hamza Igamane's double secured a third win in the tournament this season, but Rangers say travelling fans' safety was put at risk.

In a statement, the club said: "Rangers FC is deeply concerned over several unacceptable incidents in Nice last night where our supporters' safety was jeopardised.

"For some weeks now, the club has engaged with Uefa, Football Supporters Europe (FSE) and the local French authorities, with intelligence suggesting this match had potential to be problematic based on the experiences of other visiting clubs.

"Despite that significant work, our supporters were badly let down by the draconian security operation imposed by the local authorities being poorly organised and executed. This operation was changed on several occasions with no prior warning given to Rangers staff on the ground."

Some Rangers fans were reportedly sent emails by the French club telling them that their tickets had been cancelled after being inadvertently allocated in home seating, without further explanation.

Rangers added: "Much of the communication provided to Rangers in advance also proved to be incorrect, with items such as power banks taken for storage during the match.

"The heavy-handed tactics used by the local police force were also unwarranted and caused serious distress for many of our supporters.

"The club remains in dialogue with Uefa and FSE, and is inviting supporters affected by events last night to contact SLO@rangers.co.uk with details, images and video footage.

"The club want to put on record our thanks to our supporters for their backing last night, and for their patience as these issues were dealt with."

No instances of crowd trouble were reported after the game.