Rangers forward Fabio Silva has denied aiming his celebration at the club’s supporters following his goal against Kilmarnock, according to reports.
The on-loan Wolves player has attempted to clear the air after his celebration sparked debate during the Scottish Premiership clash at Ibrox. Silva, a Portuguese U21 international, scored his fifth goal for the club since his January arrival from England.
After netting, Silva turned away from the goal, lifted his jersey to display his name, and raised his shoulders towards the crowd. He then made a gesture that resembled “yapping” before being mobbed by teammates. Rangers ultimately secured a 4-1 victory under manager Philippe Clement.
However, the celebration raised questions among some Rangers fans who interpreted it as a dig at the home support. Some had been critical of the £35 million loanee since his arrival in Scotland.
A source close to Silva has now explained the gestures. “Fabio is very professional and would never do anything disrespectful to the club he represents,” the source told Football Scotland. “The shirt movement was simply him saying, ‘I’m here. There’s a lot of talk, but I’m here.’”
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The incident has gained traction in Silva’s native Portugal. Newspaper A Bola described the celebration as “controversial,” claiming it signaled “there is too much talk” from the Rangers faithful. Futebol Divertido also weighed in, calling the gesture “bizarre.”