Ross County forward and ex-Celtic youth Michael Gardyne has had charges relating to the use of offensive language against Rangers dropped by the SFA.
The forward was accused of using unacceptable language towards Alfredo Morelos by members of the Rangers team during the Ibrox side’s 4-0 win in Dingwall on December 6th 2020.
Gardyne, 35, was accused of using a homophobic slur against Morelos as he winced in pain following a robust challenge in the first half.
The SFA website had been updated to reflect the decision to drop the case with the status of the incident being updated to “withdrawn” [SFA].
The original charge asked if Gardyne had behaved in “any manner which is improper or use any one, or a combination of, violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour”.
Rangers boss Steven Gerrard had previously slammed Michael Gardyne for his use of inappropriate language in the aftermath of the match.
“What was apparently said doesn’t belong on a football pitch,” said Gerrard [Daily Record].
“There are campaigns for this sort of stuff to be eradicated out the game and we want to be at the forefront backing these campaigns.
“But as I say this wasn’t one of my players so it’s not really for me to deal with.
“I wanted to know if the referee heard what my players heard. He said he never, so from there I just moved on and went to do my half-time team talk and focused on the game.”
Ross County have welcomed the decision via an official club statement, saying they “welcome” the decision to drop the charges.
The decision also comes after Rangers welcomed Ross County – who were without Michael Gardyne – to Ibrox at the weekend.
The Gers ran out comfortable 5-0 winners in a match in which Steven Gerrard’s side really did play like the Champions elect.
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