The Tartan Army have been warned not to buy replicas of the new Scotland strip – amid fears they could fund organised crime.
A Record probe revealed thousands of fans bought counterfeit Chinese-made versions of the £90 Adidas jersey – brought out to mark the 150th anniversary of the first-ever international football match, against England in 1872.
The copycat kits sell for as little as £10 online. Now, an MP and two government bodies have warned fans to steer clear of the budget strips.
Paisley and Renfrewshire North SNP MP Gavin Newlands said: “In the middle of the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades, the temptation to go down the cheaper route is huge.
"But we know that revenue from these illegal activities is linked to international criminal groups.
"Given China’s appalling record on workers’ rights, it’s doubtful these are made in humane conditions or are up to the safety standards we expect in this country.
“I have criticised JD Sports and Adidas for their ludicrous pricing. A £90 price tag does nothing to engender goodwill from fans. Some supporters are going to look at alternatives –some outside the law.”
Following the Record probe, numerous listings of the fake tops were removed from a website but last night they were still available online.
Trading Standards Scotland said: “We would encourage people not to buy them. The link between counterfeit goods and organised crime is well documented. There’s also a safety element. These items won’t have gone through the same tests as genuine items.”
Advice Direct Scotland said: “Buying counterfeit items online may feel like a bargain but, in reality, these goods will likely turn out to be a substandard imitation of the real thing.”
The Scottish Football Association were approached for comment.
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