RIP Walter Smith
Rangers have announced that their legendary former manager Walter Smith has sadly died at the age of 73.
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
In a statement on the official Rangers website, 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.”
Smith spent time at Dundee United and Dumbarton during his playing career, but is fondly remembered for his time at Ibrox where he managed in two different spells between 1991-1998 and 2007-2011. He won 21 trophies over his two stints and is the second-most successful manager in Rangers’ history, winning seven consecutive during his first spell at the club.
He also spent four seasons in the Premier League with Everton as well as a short spell as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant manager. He also spent three years as manager of Scotland, from 2004 to 2007.
Rest in peace, Walter Smith.
