Paul Gascoigne has spoken publicly for the first time since his controversial flute-playing actions during the Old Firm match earlier this month.

Gascoigne, who was named among the Rangers substitutes but did not play in the 2-0 victory against Aberdeen, made an unannounced appearance in the press room following the game.

He said: "I would like to unreservedly apologise for my actions during the match at Celtic Park.

"I totally accept that I should not have made the gesture and I am aware of the hard work undertaken by Rangers.

"My actions did nothing to assist the efforts being carried out in this area.

"The club have taken a very serious view of the situation and they immediately, last weekend, imposed a fine of £20,000 on me.

"The matter was addressed privately within the club as is their normal policy. Due to the sensitive nature of the matter, rather than deal with the situation in private, I decided I would like to make this apology public.

"I fully accept that I should think twice before carrying out actions such as last week.

"The club have decided that the fine will be given to charity and, again, I would like to offer my unreserved apologies and hope that this is the end of the matter."

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