Former Rangers, Everton and Scotland manager Walter Smith has died at the age of 73. He won 21 trophies during two spells in charge of Rangers. Between those two tenures he spent four years at Everton and two years as manager of the Scotland national team.
Smith was born in Lanark, growing up in Carmyle in Glasgow’s East End. As a defender, he played over 200 games for Dundee United, where he began his coaching career under Jim McLean when he retired aged 29. He was assistant for Scotland under Sir Alex Ferguson at the 1986 World Cup.
After moving from Tannadice to Rangers in 1986 as Graeme Souness’ assistant, he was appointed manager in 1991, winning nine titles in succession.
Rangers Statement
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our former manager, chairman and club legend, Walter Smith.
Chairman, Douglas Park commented: “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.”