Football pays tribute to former Rangers, Everton and Scotland boss Walter Smith

The football world has paid tribute to former Rangers, Everton and Scotland manager Walter Smith.

Smith, 73, led Rangers to ten top-flight titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups during his time at the Scottish giants.

He also took them to the 2008 Uefa Cup final.

Announcing their former manager’s death, Rangers said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our former manager, chairman and club legend, Walter Smith.”

Rangers' manager Walter Smith during a photo call at Murray Park, Glasgow in 2007. Credit: PA

Rangers chairman Douglas Park added on the club website: “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.”

Former Scotland, Rangers and Everton manager Walter Smith has died aged 73, Rangers have announced. Credit: PA

Talking to TalkSport he said: “The loss is absolutely incredible.

“The good thing is he’s not in pain. I went to see Walter recently, I spoke to him at the weekend and we knew that it would be a matter of time. But it still does not take away the pain and the grief.

“I could sit here and tell you about Walter Smith until the cows come home, but what I will say he was the best husband, father, friend, everything you want from a man.

“I can’t tell you how devastated I am.”

Born in Lanark, Smith began his career as a player at Dundee United.

The defender made more than 100 appearances during his first stint at the club before a spell at Dumbarton between 1975 and 1977.

Smith returned to Dundee United to finish his career, hanging up his boots in 1980.

He quickly moved into management, taking the reins of first the Scotland U18 side, and then the U21 side.

Former Scotland, Rangers and Everton manager Walter Smith has died aged 73. Credit: PA

In 1991 he landed his first role in club management, taking over at Ibrox.

During his first spell at the club, Smith won 13 honours, including seven straight league titles.

He left for Everton in 1998 where he managed until 2002.

A spell as the manager of Scotland’s senior team would follow, before Smith returned to Rangers, racking up another eight honours, including three further league titles, and guided the club to a European final.

Everton added their voice to the condolences for Smith, calling it a “sad day for football”.

Walter Smith (right) at Goodison Park with assistant Archie Knox after taking over the Everton managerial post. Credit: PA

The Merseyside club tweeted: “A very sad day for football.

“Walter Smith OBE, former Rangers, Scotland and Everton manager, has passed away.

“A man held in high regard by all his players.

“Our thoughts are with Walter’s loved ones at this tough time.”

Former Everton defender Alan Stubbs tweeted: “So sad to hear of the passing of Walter Smith.

“Will always be so grateful to him for giving me a chance to fulfil my dream!! RIP Gaffer.”

The Scottish Football Association tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the former Scotland national coach, and one of the most successful managers in Scottish football history, Walter Smith.

“The thoughts of everyone at the Scottish FA are with his friends and family at this time.”

Dumbarton tweeted: “It is with very deep sadness that we have learned of the passing of our former player Walter Smith.

“After playing for Dumbarton, Walter became a legendary manager with Rangers, Everton and Scotland.

“All of our thoughts are with Walter’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Manchester United tweeted: “Everyone at Manchester United is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Walter Smith.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Walter’s friends and family at this extremely difficult time.”