As Ryan Porteous received a red card in the opening game of Euro 2024 against Germany for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan, echoes of Steven Gerrard’s past remarks on the former Hibs defender re-emerged across social media platforms.

Former Rangers manager Gerrard had previously criticized Porteous for his challenges on Lassana Coulibaly and Joe Aribo during his time at Ibrox.

Despite earning a starting spot under Steve Clarke for Scotland’s match in Munich, Porteous was shown a red card in the first half following a VAR review of his tackle on Gundogan, as he desperately tried to prevent a third German goal.

While Porteous did make contact with the ball, his forceful challenge on Gundogan’s ankle left referee Clement Turpin with little choice but to award a penalty and issue a red card.

Scotland hero Willie Miller expressed his disgust at the tackle, labeling it as “horrible.” Speaking on BBC, Miller remarked, “You can’t win the ball with a tackle; you have to aim to block it. He should have focused on positioning himself to block rather than tackle. The combination of the scissor challenge and the forceful contact with the ankle is dreadful and sickening to watch. Gundogan was fortunate that his studs were planted, as otherwise it could have resulted in a serious injury. It’s simply horrendous.”

Miller’s sentiments mirrored those of Gerrard regarding Porteous’ tackling, particularly referencing a match where the defender saw red for a similar lunge on Aribo during a 2-1 victory for Rangers against Hibs.

Reflecting on the incident, Gerrard stated, “I’m no stranger to bad tackles, having made a few myself, so I’m not one to judge. But that tackle was reckless and potentially leg-breaking. The player should focus on playing the ball and there’s no place for such intent. It’s disappointing to see him repeat such behavior, as he did in the past against Coulibaly. He has let his team and manager down, and he must learn from these mistakes. Such tackles have no place on the football pitch. I’ve learned from my own past mistakes, and I’m hopeful the young player will do the same.”