Rangers fans gather at Ibrox to pay tribute to former boss Walter Smith

The club legend's funeral cortege passed the stadium this afternoon.

Author: Sophie AdamsPublished 3rd Nov 2021
Last updated 3rd Nov 2021

Thousands of football fans gathered outside Ibrox Stadium today to bid farewell to legendary Rangers boss Walter Smith who died last week.

The former Light Blues and Scotland manager's funeral cortege drove along Edmiston Drive this afternoon on the way to a private funeral service for his family.

The procession passed Ibrox Stadium at around 3.15pm and drove in the direction of Paisley Road West before rejoining the motorway.

Fans of all ages lined the streets to pay their respects and laid banners, scarves and flags outside the Southside club's grounds.

Smith, who passed away at the age of 73 last week, was one of the most successful Rangers managers of all-time.

He won 10 league titles, five Scottish Cups, six League Cups across two spells at Ibrox.

He also led the club to the 2008 UEFA Cup final in Manchester where they lost to Zenit St Petersburg.

The club's chairman Douglas Park said last week: "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."

A public memorial will take place at Glasgow Cathedral on Friday, November 19.

Smith is survived by his wife Ethel, their sons and their grandchildren.

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