The Union Bears have boycotted Rangers' home match against Raith Rovers.

The fans group has vacated their section at Ibrox in what is believed to be a protest against the club.

Last week, during Rangers' match against Kilmarnock, the supporters' band aimed a banner at the Ibrox hierarchy. 

Their message claimed that they had taken their eye off the ball in the two years since Rangers lifted their 55th title.

And as Rangers kicked off against Raith today in their Scottish Cup quarter-final tie, it became apparent the ultras would not be in attendance in their usual area of the Broomloan Stand.

It is understood that this is in protest against the removal of banners planned for use at the Scottish Cup game. A Rangers source has confirmed these were not anti-board messages but were deemed offensive and therefore confiscated.

The situation was picked up by live TV coverage of the game.

Viaplay cameras panned to the empty section of the stand behind one of the goals. Commentator Rory Hamilton said: "There is the rather empty area where the Union Bears usually bit.

"We do understand they are in the vicinity of the stadium, just outside."

A statement from the group is expected at some stage this afternoon.

A photo has since emerged on social media of the Union Bears congregated outside the main entrance of Ibrox.

READ MORE: Michael Beale explains Ryan Jack Rangers starting XI omission

Various Rangers fans have grown restless towards those in power at Ibrox with the club nine points behind Celtic in the Premiership title race. 

This was also compounded by Rangers' meek performance in the Viaplay Cup final against their arch-Glasgow rivals at the end of last month.

Meanwhile, Michael Beale has detailed why Ryan Jack did not start for Rangers against Raith Rovers today.

Jack was excellent on Wednesday night as the Light Blues coasted past Hibs 4-1 at Easter Road, so many were surprised to see him on the bench for this afternoon's game.

Beale told Viaplay: "Ryan Jack has been a fantastic player for this club since I joined in 2018. I had a year away, I've come back and he's been very important to me.

"He had a slight issue with his calf earlier in the month and we've had to manage that. 

"He did really well in the last two games and we've got John to come in today. That's a lovely strength for us to have, to bring John back into the team. 

"Ryan's a player we want to keep at Rangers longer. Those discussions are happening in the background."