Rangers captain James Tavernier could face disciplinary action after a controversial Instagram post, which has since been deleted, referred to former Celtic striker and pundit Chris Sutton as a “dumb dog.” The post, which was uploaded three days ago, quickly went viral before being removed within hours. However, screenshots of the post continue to circulate online, and Sutton has now indicated that he will pursue formal action unless Tavernier issues a public apology.
The incident began late on Sunday evening when Tavernier reportedly replied to a critical comment from Sutton, who had questioned Rangers’ mentality following their latest Premiership draw. Sutton, who has never shied away from criticizing Rangers players, particularly Tavernier, suggested that the captain “goes missing when it matters most.” In what appeared to be a moment of frustration, Tavernier responded through his Instagram story with the now-infamous line: “Chris Sutton’s just a dumb dog barking for attention.”

Though the post was deleted within hours, screenshots quickly spread across social media, sparking a wave of reaction from fans and pundits alike. Rangers supporters were divided, with some defending their captain’s outburst as a rare moment of honesty, while others suggested that the comment was beneath the armband. Celtic fans, meanwhile, seized upon the controversy, with many tagging Sutton directly and urging him to “stand his ground.”
Three days on, the story refuses to die down. Sutton, who currently works as a pundit for TNT Sports and BBC Radio 5 Live, has now released a statement through his representatives indicating that he will take further action unless Tavernier offers a clear and public apology.