Christopher McKee: On-loan Rangers striker sent off for Brechin after alleged 'homophobic' language
- Published
Brechin City's Christopher McKee was sent off for using foul and abusive language of a homophobic nature
Rangers are to investigate alleged use of foul and abusive language of a homophobic nature by Christopher McKee while on loan to Brechin City.
The 19-year-old Northern Irish striker was sent off as Brechin lost their Pyramid Play-off final to Kelty Hearts.
He was shown a straight red card in the 41st minute by referee Craig Napier.
"We will investigate this incident thoroughly and it will be treated with the utmost seriousness," a Rangers spokesman said.
Brechin lost 1-0 on the day and 3-1 on aggregate to drop out of the senior set-up for the first time in 67 years and player-manager Michael Paton said McKee was "left in tears".
Paton said he had been unable to clarify with McKee what had been said but admitted that, if a homophobic slur had been used, it was a case of "zero tolerance".
"The ref's had a wee word with him - I think he's said he's used some language he's not happy with," he told BBC Scotland.
"I don't know what Chris has said because he's in a bit of a state. He's upset himself, he's crying, so I'll have a conversation with him after I go back in."
McKee, who joined Rangers' youth set up from Linfield in his homeland in 2018, was making his 14th appearance after moving to Glebe Park on loan in March and has now been sent off twice.
Brechin chairman Ken Ferguson said he could not make a comment about the red card because he had not yet seen the referee's report, which is likely to lead to disciplinary action from the Scottish FA.
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