Dave King in Ibrox merchandise pledge as Rangers retail stand-off continues

The Gers board informed Rangers Retail Limited in May that it was terminating the intellectual property licence and rights agreement with immediate effect.

Sports Direct chief Mike Ashley subsequently resigned as a director of RRL and the Light Blue legions have maintained their boycott of official merchandise as the Ibrox stand-off continues.

In his latest address to Gers fans, King said: “Since my appointment as a director of RRL, I have sought to understand the circumstances that led to it being formed, the way in which it carries out its business and the manner in which it is governed, both internally and in its dealings with the outside world. It is my duty as a director to understand such matters.

“There are a number of issues that, as my understanding increases, have caused me concern but they must necessarily be dealt with away from the public arena. What I can give assurances on is that I am using my best endeavours to resolve these issues.

“It was certainly a unique experience for me to share a boardroom table with a man called before a Parliamentary Committee to explain his company’s business practices and how that company treats those who work in its business.

“It was not a long acquaintance as Mr Ashley suddenly resigned rather than work with me and the others on the Board to resolve the issues facing RRL. No explanation has been given for Mr Ashley’s resignation.

“Paul Murray is with me on the Board of RRL and we will not abandon our duties to that company. These are now more challenging than ever as RRL has been advised by TRFC that TRFC has terminated the Agreement that permits RRL to distribute, market and supply Rangers products.

“As a director of RRL, I and my colleagues on the Board need to carefully analyse and review the circumstances that have led to TRFC terminating the retail arrangements. We also need to consider how RRL should respond to the termination.”