RANGERS fans paid tribute to their legendary boss Walter Smith with an incredible display before their game with Aberdeen tonight.
Gers supporters unfurled banners inside Ibrox to honour one of their most successful managers on a day where Celtic chiefs joined mourners in Govan to pay their own respects.
Reading “for deeds done and glories won, thank you Walter”, it marked the latest tribute to a man who had been widely acclaimed since his death at the age of 73 was announced on Tuesday. A minute’s silence was also observed by both sets of fans, management teams, and players.
Key figures from within the game, including Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Kenny Dalglish, joined media personalities, supporters, and politicians in lining up to show their respect for the “titan” of Scottish football.
During two trophy laden spells in Govan, Smith became one of the most successful Rangers managers of all-time and a popular figure to both sides of the city, thanks in part because of his friendship with Tommy Burns.
A chorus of ‘Walter Smith’s blue and white army’ around Ibrox. pic.twitter.com/eyq0iBu8Ow
— Chris Jack (@Chris_Jack89) October 27, 2021
Earlier today the Hoops' chairman Ian Bankier was joined by former player Tommy Boyd - who also grew close to Smith - in laying a wreath at the John Greig statue in the Carmyle boy's honour.
Rangers manager Steven Gerrard and a handful of first team stars, including James Tavernier, later paid their own respects.
In a hand written note, left among the tributes, Gerrard said: "To the Smith family.
READ MORE: Rangers and Celtic fans gather outside Ibrox to mourn loss of Walter Smith
"I am really sorry for your loss. On behalf of me and my staff I want to send our condolences.
"He was a huge support to us all. He will be sorely missed.
"Lots of love, Steven Gerrard."
In his own tribute yesterday, Rangers chairman Douglas Park said: “He embodied everything that a Ranger should be.
“His character and leadership was second to none.”
Smith is survived by his wife Ethel, their two sons, and their grandchildren.
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