Steve Clarke: Kilmarnock boss accuses Rangers fans of ‘living in Dark Ages’ after sectarian abuse

Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke accused Rangers fans of “living in the Dark Ages” after being targeted with sectarian abuse during a Scottish Cup match at Ibrox on Wednesday night.

Alfredo Morelos struck four times on his return from suspension to hand the Gers a 5-0 win but the match was overshadowed by the abuse directed at former Chelsea defender Clarke.

Chants of “sad Fenian bastard” echoed around the stadium as a section of Rangers supporters used a derogatory term for Catholics during the 5-0 win.

“It’s lovely being back in the west of Scotland, really nice,” Clarke said after the match, his voice full of emotion.

“When I was approached by Rangers about taking over the job here I was assured that ‘we don’t have that in the west of Scotland any more. It’s gone’.

“They can call me a bastard or a wanker. No problem, thanks, guys. But to call me a Fenian bastard, come on. Where are we living in? The Dark Ages?”

‘I thank Chelsea’

Clarke, who made over 300 appearances for Chelsea before becoming assistant manager, also said he was grateful to the London club for taking him away from Scotland.

“They [Rangers fans] are not allowed to call my assistant [Alex Dyer] a black bastard but they can call me a Fenian bastard. What are we doing in Scotland?” he asked.

“I wake up every morning and thank Chelsea for coming and taking me away from the west of Scotland because my children don’t understand this.

“Thankfully when I go down there my children, my grandchildren don’t have to worry about this. So, fantastic to be back in Scotland.”

The abuse comes days after Kilmarnock striker Kris Boyd was hit by a coin and subjected to sectarian abuse before a Premiership match against Celtic on Sunday.