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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Alison McConnell

Celtic's Fran Alonso 'wants apology from Rangers coach over headbutt not police action'

Celtic women's boss doesn't want the police to take action over the headbutting incident with Rangers coach Craig McPherson, it's claimed.

The Spaniard is understood to be eager to avoid court following the controversy at the weekend, but he is believed to want an apology.

The drama unfolded on Monday night when the sides drew 1-1, and Fran Alonso appeared to have been headbutted from behind by McPherson moments after Caitlin Hayes had scored in the ninth minute of added time. the Daily Record reports.

READ MORE: Scotland player ratings as Scott McTominay heroics end near 40-year wait for historic win against Spain

Celtic later went on record to tell of their disgust at the incident, during which it is also claimed McPherson called Alonso a "little rat".

However, it is unlikely the SFA will see things quite the same way as the Hoops manger, after the incident was pointed out to compliance officer Martin Black.

The events marred the game, which was beamed live on Sky Sports - the first time a SWPL has been screened live by the broadcaster - and while the incident has not been fast-tracked, the international break this week should accelerate the process.

Rangers Women's assistant manager Craig McPherson appears to headbutt Celtic manager Fran Alonso (Football Scotland)

The on-pitch flashpoint sparked fury from the Parkhead giants who through a spokesperson said: "Clearly this is a hugely concerning incident, falling well below any acceptable standard. We understand the matter is now being investigated and it will be up to all relevant authorities to take any appropriate action."

It is understood the Celtic women's manager will not seek to press charges against Rangers assistant manager Craig McPherson after Police Scotland opened up an inquiry into events at the full-time whistle on Monday's 1-1 draw at Broadwood.

Rangers manager Malky Thomson said after the game on Monday evening that the events would be investigated but there was no official comment from the Ibrox club.

The SWPL are probing the event and a statement: "The SWPL is aware of an incident following last night's [Monday] Rangers v Celtic match. This incident is currently being investigated by Police Scotland and the Scottish FA. The SWPL will not make any further comment at this time, whilst these investigations are ongoing."

Former referee Steve Conroy suggested a lifetime ban is the only fitting punishment for the behaviour.

He said: "It is appalling. He should be instantly removed from his post and banned for life. There is absolutely no mitigation for that. He gave it forethought & should pay the full price for it. It's embarrassing that the first SWPL game to be shown live on Sky Sports is grabbing headlines for all the wrong reasons.

"This is simply thuggish behaviour, and the man involved should face the full consequences. We are trying to get rid of all forms of aggression and intimidation in football from grassroots upwards. This must be dealt with in the appropriate way."

READ NEXT:

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- Scott McTominay hails 'incredible' Hampden and tells Scotland fans: 'These are the nights we'll remember'

- Scotland player ratings as Scott McTominay heroics end near 40-year wait for historic win against Spain

- Scotland 2 Spain 0 three things we learned as Steve Clarke makes history with EURO 2024 hopes boosted

- Rangers coach 'headbutts' Celtic women's boss branding him 'little rat' in explosive derby scenes

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