Ex-Rangers boss Smith passed away aged 73

Walter Smith

has passed away struggling with an illness at the age of 73. The former

boss was a legend at Ibrox, having contributed to 21 trophies in his two spells at the club.

He was also the mastermind behind the Glasgow giants’ UEFA Cup final in 2008 and was in charge of his country’s national team from 2004 to 2007.

He also managed Everton for about four years and was Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Manchester United.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Rangers chairman

Douglas Park

said: 

"On behalf of the Rangers board of directors, staff and players, I convey my deep condolences to the Smith family. Walter leaves behind a wife, children and grandchildren, all of whom are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

"It is almost impossible to encapsulate what Walter meant to every one of us at Rangers. He embodied everything that a Ranger should be. His character and leadership was second to none, and will live long in the memory of everyone he worked with during his two terms as first team manager.

"I spoke with Walter as recently as last weekend. Even when he was battling illness, he was still able to provide advice and support. For that, I am personally grateful. I know that he continued also to maintain dialogue with senior members of staff, including our manager, Steven Gerrard.

"Walter will be sorely missed by all of us at Rangers.

"Winning 10 top-flight titles as manager, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups, as well as leading his club to the UEFA Cup final in 2008, he will be remembered by the football community across the world. His spells as Scotland manager as well as managing in the English Premier League underlined his credentials as one of the great modern day football managers.

"However, for Rangers supporters, he was much more than just a football manager. Walter was a friend to many, a leader, an ambassador and most of all -a legend."

Former Rangers manager

Mark Warburton

paid his tribute, writing on

Twitter

:

"Devastating news to hear of the sad passing of Walter Smith. A man who was always on hand to help with advice and support. My thoughts and condolences are with his family at this most difficult time."

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