Ranger legend Andy Goram insists 'I'm no bigot' and tells of his love for Northern Ireland

Former Rangers legend Andy Goram has said he has always been proud of his strong links with Rangers fans in Northern Ireland.

The ex Scotland goalkeeper hit back at claims he sympathised with Loyalist terrorists and described allegations he took part in anti-Catholic behaviour as “nonsense”.

The 58-year-old, diagnosed with terminal oesophageal cancer, said Gers supporters in Belfast made him “feel relaxed” whenever he visited the city’s pubs.

Read more: Steven Davis signs new Rangers contract as NI captain extends Ibrox stay

Now, those fans are backing him in his fight for life after doctors predicted Goram has around six months to live.

He said: “I’ve had more messages from fans in Northern Ireland than anywhere else.”

Goram regularly visited over 100 Rangers supporters’ clubs in the province, mainly the Shankill Road.

He added: “I’ve never condoned sectarianism. Just because I have close links with Northern Ireland and been to the Shankill Road doesn’t mean I support bigotry or terrorism.

“I’ve loved going to Belfast, where the punters have treated me tremendously.

“Why should I be ashamed of that?”

Goram said the wave of support he has had from fans in Northern Ireland since it was revealed he has terminal cancer has been overwhelming.

He told the Daily Record: “I’ve been to every supporters’ club in Northern Ireland and they’ve all sent messages since finding out I was ill.

“I really can’t thank them enough.

“I’ve had messages and cards from Rangers fans all over the world but the amount from Northern Ireland tops the lot. They’ve been brilliant.”

Goram first went to Northern Ireland with teammate Ian Durrant shortly after he signed for Rangers in 1991.

The club wanted to build a closer rapport with the