Former Celtic star Moussa Dembele claims he was sent death threats from Rangers fans before Old Firm derbies.

The former Hoops hitman enjoyed a successful spell in Glasgow under Brendan Rodgers, scoring a hat-trick against their bitter rivals in his debut in the famous derby. Dembele would go on to score at Ibrox and win back-to-back Trebles during a storied stint at Celtic before making a big-money move to Lyon in his homeland. Now Dembele turns out for former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq and admits his departure from the Rhone club was somewhat acrimonious.

In a candid interview following his departure to Saudi Arabia, the 27-year-old also said that he got death threats while playing for the Hoops. “In football, as in life, when you feel appreciated and supported, you are better,” he told Foot Mercato. When it comes from the opposition, hostility does not frighten me.

“I would even say that it stimulates me. I experienced death threats from Rangers fans before the Glasgow derbies and that didn’t stop me from doing the job.

“However, when the hostility comes from your own supporters and turns into hatred, it’s a different story.” My final season in Lyon was difficult. Despite the impediments thrown in my path by management, I had made a good start. I recognize that I could and could have done better. That, however, was not the case. “My services are clear and objective to me.”

You can also subscribe to our Rangers and Celtic newsletters and follow the Rangers and Celtic podcast pages to ensure you don’t miss a beat this season.