Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson has refused to be drawn on a potential boycott of their Scottish Cup tie by Rangers fans.
The Tangerines were pulled out of the hat alongside the Light Blues when the fifth round draw was made at Hampden on Monday, with the game scheduled to be played at Tannadice on the weekend of February 2-3.
No sooner had the match-up been made than there was talk of some Rangers supporters giving it a miss due to a grievance at United’s perceived leading role in not allowing the transfer of the old SPL share to Charles Green’s newco.
Despite the Ibrox side now being in the Third Division, if there were to be no protest Ally McCoist’s men would be expected to be backed by several thousands of fans at what is sure to be an intriguing cup clash.
Thompson, who was in Glasgow to attend an SPL meeting, declined to get involved in any boycott speculation.
”All I will say is that we are pleased to have a home game in the cup and I know that is what our manager (Peter Houston) wanted,” stated Thompson.
The tension between the two clubs isn’t eased by the fact the Tangerines are still owed £31,000 of ticket money from their Scottish Cup victory over the old Rangers at Ibrox last season.
Meanwhile, Dundee boss Barry Smith insists he will be taking nothing for granted after the Dark Blues were drawn to face the winners of the replay between First Division Morton and Highland League side Turriff United at Dens.
Smith said: ”It will be difficult no matter who goes through and we’ll show them every respect, as we did Livingston. Cup ties are always tricky and it’s all about being professional.”