McInnes reveals what sparked fiery touchline spat with Mark Fotheringham

Derek McInnes has revealed what sparked his fiery touchline confrontation with Celtic coach Mark Fotheringham during Rangers’ Old Firm victory at Celtic Park.

Tempers flared just minutes into Sunday’s derby after Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez was booked for bringing down Camilo Duran as the Celtic forward attempted to break through on goal.

McInnes immediately made his feelings known to the officials before the Rangers boss became embroiled in a heated exchange with Fotheringham on the touchline.

The pair were seen squaring up and exchanging words before Celtic boss Martin O’Neill helped move Fotheringham away from the confrontation. Referee John Beaton subsequently showed both coaches yellow cards.

McInnes was asked about the incident after Rangers secured a 1-0 victory, and his explanation was brief but revealing.

“It was 3-1 against me [fouls], and there was only two bookings,” the Rangers boss said.

“I was just sticking up for my team.”

The confrontation added another chapter to the already tense relationship between McInnes and Fotheringham.

The two had previously clashed during McInnes’ spell as Hearts manager, when the Rangers boss took issue with Fotheringham’s reaction to a Celtic goal.

McInnes subsequently criticised the Celtic coach, describing his reaction as something he did not like.

At the time, O’Neill defended Fotheringham and pointed to his coaching experience in Germany and English football.

That previous history made Sunday’s confrontation even more notable, with the two once again finding themselves at the centre of a fiery Old Firm touchline incident.

And while the exchange provided plenty of drama early on, McInnes ultimately had the final say as Rangers left Celtic Park with a 1-0 victory.