Furious Ianis Hagi blasts 'untrue' claims as Rangers star at centre of Romania Euro 2024 storm

Furious Ianis Hagi has been forced to release a statement after reports claimed the Rangers star snubbed Romania fans after their 2-0 loss to Belgium.

Hagi, 26, is due back at Ibrox next month after spending the season out on loan with La Liga side Alaves. But the playmaker has been caught up in a furious storm after media outlets in his homeland suggested he refused to acknowledge his own supporters at full-time on Saturday. Hagi has made two sub appearances for his country as their hopes of reaching the Euro 2024 knockouts hang in the balance, with all four teams in Group E locked on three points.

Romania's fate will be decided when they face Slovakia tomorrow but the headlines back home have been dominated by Hagi's apparent disrespect to his own supporters. However, the midfielder - son of the legendary Gheorghe Hagi - has moved to shut down the stories by sharing a statement on the Romanian national team's social media channels.

It read: "In the last few days, I've noticed a few articles in the press claiming that after the match with Belgium, I went straight to the dressing room without greeting the audience and my colleagues.

"I want to clear this situation up and assure you that this information is completely untrue. Immediately after the final whistle, we greeted all the areas where the Romanian supporters were. It’s very important for me to show my respect and appreciation for all of you who support us unconditionally. I also greeted all my colleagues before going to the locker room.

"For me, the Romanian national team is a family. Every game, every practice, and every moment spent with my teammates is priceless. The Romanian public is wonderful and I have enormous respect for each of you. I always have and always will have the upmost respect for you who support us unconditionally.

"The moments spent with you on and off the field are the most beautiful moments of my career. It is an honour to wear the national team's shirt and represent Romania in front of you. Every shout of encouragement and applause from you guys means a lot to me and the team. Thank you very much for your constant support and I assure you that we will continue to fight for Romania, together, as a true family."