Dundee United have issued a statement condemning a rise in verbal abuse towards members of the club’s staff.
The Tannadice side said there has been an “escalation” in vitriol aimed at their workers recently.
Verbal abuse is being directed at staff from shoppers said to have been left disappointed at missing out on United products which are out of stock.
The Tangerines have a club store on Tannadice Street.
A club statement issued on Boxing Day said front-facing staff are putting up with “unwarranted, unacceptable” abuse; with management claiming they could involve police in future instances.
The statement reads: “There has been a recent escalation in verbal abuse towards club staff who are trying to serve supporters as best they can.
“Such abuse is completely unwarranted. Our members of staff are simply doing their job and have helped improve all aspects of the club’s services and products for supporters including selling out a derby match in record time and delivering the best retail results, particularly from home and away shirt sales, in recent years.
“While we understand people’s disappointment at missing out on items, our staff are not there to be the butt of frustration when the stock is simply no longer available.”
After a recent increase in verbal abuse of front-facing staff, we cannot tolerate unacceptable behaviour. Be United with us ?? #Tangerine50 https://t.co/SRMqvmD7Fr
— Dundee United FC (@dundeeunitedfc) December 26, 2019
The club added: “Dundee United FC will not tolerate unacceptable behaviour. Any incidents of abuse that can be specifically identified will be investigated further and brought to the authorities attention if necessary.
“We ask all customers to respect our staff, and be united with us as we take the club forward.”
It comes after tickets for Friday’s clash between Dundee United and Dundee FC sold-out.
