Rangers blast 'misogynistic' Joey Barton Sky Sports Cup final comments as ex Ibrox midfielder slapped down

Rangers have fired back at "discriminatory and misogynistic" comments following their Sky Sports Cup final clash with Partick Thistle.

Former Ibrox midfielder Joey Barton has been among those to deliver scathing criticism of the women's game - as he targeted 17-year-old Jags goalkeeper Ava Easdon following the Tynecastle showpiece. The former Rangers midfielder fired in a withering take of 17-year-old Easdon – on loan from Glasgow City – for her role in one of the Ibrox side's goals in the 4-1 defeat for Thistle during the showcase contest staged at Tynecastle. He even used a disgusting term in attempting to defend his attack during a social media conversation with Gers and Scotland star Nicola Docherty.

The sickening comments have been condemned across Scottish football and the Light Blues have now rallied around the youngster. A club statement read: "Rangers FC has been made aware of discriminatory and misogynistic comments regarding the women’s game following Sunday’s Sky Sports Cup Final. As a club, we stand together against these homophobic and disgraceful slurs in the strongest possible terms.

"We are unwavering in our desire to further the women’s game across the country which goes from strength to strength, and will support all players in challenging those who hold extremely outdated and foul views of women’s football."

Ibrox women's star Docherty has backed her club's stance and blasted Barton, saying: "Homophobic comments will never be welcome in our society. Together as a team we stand to educate the small minority."

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