Ex-FIFA official: Rangers star at 'Huge Risk' of three-match ban after win v OGC Nice

Dujon Sterling is at a “huge risk” of receiving a three-game ban after hitting out at the referee on social media after Rangers beat OGC Nice on Thursday, according to Keith Hackett.

The Gers cruised to a comfortable 4-1 victory in France on 28 November, but Sterling took issue with the referee inspecting three different incidents in one trip to the VAR monitor after awarding a penalty to the hosts just six minutes into the game.

Although the decision was eventually overturned, the right-back called the official “desperate” in a post-match tweet on X [29 November] and Hackett, a former FIFA referee and PGMOL chief, reckons that is enough for him to land in trouble.

Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, he said: “It always amazes me how UEFA monitor indiscretions in the written and electronic media.

“The comments made in this messaging are likely to be picked up by UEFA officials and if they report this then this player is at a huge risk of receiving a sanction.

“This will take the form of a ban. He may face up to a three-match ban.

“Rangers need to remind their players to refrain from making a public comment on social media.“

Dujon Sterling at ‘huge risk’ of three-match ban after Rangers win v OGC Nice

“At every UEFA game, the organisation appoint a Match Delegate and a Referee Observer,” Hackett added.

“The Match Delegate acts on behalf of UEFA ensuring that the game takes place in line with Competition rules.

“He oversees the teams’ apparel on the morning of the game, photographing the logos and the advertising on the shirts and shorts.

“Prior to kick-off, he will walk around the outside of the stadium checking security and the safe entry of fans into the stadium.

“He also meets with the Stadium Match Commander, Police, Fire, Brigade and Ambulance services.

“On occasions, after the game has started you may get a visit by the Drug Testing officer and then a room is set aside and before the end of the game, a draw takes place to determine which players will be tested.

“The referee observer liaises with the referee prior to kick-off and monitors and reports on the referee’s performance.”

Sterling staked a claim to start ahead of James Tavernier against St. Johnstone on Sunday [1 December] after providing the assist for Mohamed Diomande’s goal against Nice.

However, he will now be hopeful that his social media post does not land him in trouble.

In other Rangers news, the Light Blues have been given a Nathan Patterson reunion answer amid Everton development.

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