Re: Rangers could ditch Puma
From the Sun:
RANGERS could ditch the controversial Puma strip released without their consent and replace it with a new kit midway through the season.
It's believed that extreme option is among a number of moves Ibrox chiefs are considering following the breakdown of their relationship with the German sportswear firm and Mike Ashley's Sports Direct empire.
The jersey row was sparked last night when Puma confirmed it had released a batch of kits for sale to Sports Direct and other retailers - despite the club's objections.
Under SPFL guidelines, Gers were required to register their colours for the new season by June 1.
They have already worn the 1980s-style royal blue home shirt on four occasions during their Betfred Cup fixtures - but there remains a possibility a new strip could be rolled out before the season is over.
SPFL rule G31 allows for alterations to be made to the designs so long as the "prior approval" of the league board has been granted first.
Light Blues chiefs would also have to apply to alter the kits lodged with the Scottish Football Association for use in the William Hill Scottish Cup.
However, the SFA handbook does allow for a change, stating: "Exceptionally, a club may, with the approval of the Board, play in colours which are modified from those which have been registered."
Legal action also remains an option but Rangers want to be sure they are in full possession of the facts surrounding the secretive deals struck between the previous Ibrox regime and Sports Direct before making their move.
Rangers had spent weeks in talks with Puma, who found themselves caught in the middle of Gers chairman Dave King's bitter war with Ashley.