Rangers defy UEFA decision by singing national anthem in memory of Queen Elizabeth II

Rangers played the national anthem ahead of their Champions League tie at home to Napoli - despite UEFA instructing them not to.

On Monday, British clubs submitted a request to the European football governing body in hope that they would be allowed to play the anthem before their midweek matches as a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II, who died at Balmoral aged 96 last Thursday. UEFA declined the request but Rangers made clear their opposition to the ruling before the match and their fans unveiled a poignant display while singing the anthem.

In a statement issued three hours before kick-off, the Scottish giants tweeted: "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be honoured this evening at Ibrox with a minute's silence, a display created by the Union Bears, and a rendition of the Nation Anthem. If you are attending tonight’s match, we encourage all supporters to be in their seat for 19:50.