Barry Ferguson and Aiden McGeady have united in their view that Rangers' controversial penalty against Motherwell was soft. The former Rangers captain and the Celtic hero both sided with ex-referee Mark Clattenburg's strong criticism of the decision, as reported by the Daily Record this week.
Rangers secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Motherwell at Ibrox thanks to a Ryan Naderi goal, but the match's major talking point was a first-half penalty award. Djeidi Gassama went down under a challenge from Tom Sparrow, and despite Kim Minsu missing the resulting spot-kick wide, the decision itself sparked fierce debate.
What did Barry Ferguson say about the penalty?
Barry Ferguson, the former Rangers skipper turned Go Radio pundit, did not hold back in his assessment. He stated he had reviewed the incident multiple times and could not support the call. "I'll be honest, I've watched it four or five times." Ferguson said. His candid admission is notable given his deep ties to the Ibrox club, and it set the tone for a broader discussion on the incident's merits.
Ferguson's perspective found an unlikely ally in a figure more commonly associated with Celtic's successes. Aiden McGeady, the former Parkhead winger, concurred with the analysis during the same radio segment. McGeady pointed to Clattenburg's credentials to underline the point, referencing his own past experiences with similar contact.
Why did Aiden McGeady agree with the assessment?
Aiden McGeady supported Ferguson's view, drawing on his personal history to explain why the decision was questionable. He revealed he has been sent off in the past for embellishing contact that was similar to what Gassama was adjudged to have suffered. McGeady specifically referenced a red card received against Hibernian for simulation. "I don't think so either. You're probably surprised I'm saying that!" McGeady stated.
This alignment between a Rangers legend and a Celtic favourite highlights how the incident transcended traditional rivalries. The officials themselves were split, with former referee Bobby Madden insisting the penalty was a clear call, while Clattenburg described it as an 'all-time low' in decision-making.
Where does this leave Celtic in the league context?
While the debate centred on a Rangers match, Celtic continue to set the pace in the Scottish Premiership. As of 8 September 2026, Brendan Rodgers' side sits first in the Premiership with 15 points, having won all five of their opening games. They hold a three-point lead over Heart of Midlothian and boast a formidable goal difference of +10, having scored 13 and conceded just three. You can track their progress on the official standings page.
The squad is navigating this strong start despite a significant injury list. Key players currently sidelined include Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Kasper Høgh, Kieran Tierney, and Jota, with full details available on the club's injuries page. Managing this absence will be vital as the season progresses.
What is next for Celtic after the international break?
Celtic's focus now shifts to their next Premiership fixture, an away trip to face Aberdeen on 19 December 2026. The Dons are currently 10th in the table, making it a match where the league leaders will be expected to maintain their perfect record. Fans can look ahead to this and other key dates on the club's fixtures schedule. The team returns from the international break aiming to extend their winning run and stays at the summit.
