Former Rangers manager and chairperson Walter Smith has passed away.
He was 73.
A winner of ten league title with the club during two periods as manager, Smith also oversaw a run to the Uefa Cup final in 2008.
He also guided Rangers to five Scottish Cups and six League Cups.
Smith had four years in charge of Everton in the Premier League between 1998 and 2002.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our former manager, chairman and club legend, Walter Smith.https://t.co/5VJn3JeqbV pic.twitter.com/E2GMYjr8fN
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) October 26, 2021
He also spent a short time with Alex Ferguson as Assistant Manager at Manchester United in 2004, before taking the Scottish National team managerial role.
Smith's playing career was mainly with Dundee United, for whom he made over 100 appearances as a defender.
Rangers chairman Douglas Park said the club is greatly saddened at Smith's passing, which follows an illness.
“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.”.
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