Johnny Russell opens up on death threats from Rangers fans as ex-Dundee United hero outlines next career step
Former Dundee United star Johnny Russell has opened up about the disturbing death threats he received from Rangers supporters during his playing career. Russell, who spent several successful years at Dundee United before moving on to MLS, spoke candidly about the ordeal, explaining how the situation escalated to the point where police involvement was necessary.
The 33-year-old forward, now playing for Sporting Kansas City, recounted the incident in a recent interview. The threats stemmed from his involvement in an incident during his time at Dundee United, when a match against Rangers turned sour. Russell, who was a prominent player for Dundee United during their competitive encounters with Rangers, became a target of intense hostility from a section of the Rangers fanbase.
The severity of the threats prompted Russell to take matters seriously, leading to police intervention to ensure his safety. While Russell did not elaborate on the specifics of the threats, he made it clear that the experience left a lasting impact on him. “It was a very scary time,” he admitted. “It’s something I never thought would happen, especially over something that happened on the pitch. But in the end, the police were great in dealing with it, and I felt safe.”
Despite the personal toll, Russell emphasized that his focus remained on his career and his passion for the game. “It’s part of football, unfortunately, when emotions run high,” he explained. “But my love for the game and the support of my teammates helped me through it.”
Looking ahead to the future, Russell hinted at his next career steps, revealing that he is considering a return to the UK in some capacity. While he has enjoyed success in MLS with Sporting Kansas City, Russell expressed a desire to eventually take on a new challenge. “I’m not sure what the future holds, but I’m keeping my options open,” he said. “Whether that means moving into coaching or perhaps back to the UK, I’m excited about the possibilities.”
As he plans for his next chapter, Russell’s reflections on his playing days, including the challenges and the joy of his career, show his resilience. Despite the dark moments, he remains committed to football and is ready to explore what lies ahead.
