Walter Smith

Everyone at the SPFL was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Walter Smith at the age of 73.

A player with both Dundee United and Dumbarton, it was as a manager that he really made his mark on the game in this country.

Rangers won an incredible 21 trophies during his two spells in charge at Ibrox - 10 league titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups - and he led them to the UEFA Cup final in 2008.

Walter Smith also managed Everton and Scotland with distinction, taking charge of the national team between 2004 and 2007.

SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster said: “This is terrible news for Walter’s family and friends, and also for everyone associated with Scottish football. Walter was a true giant of the game, with an unparalleled reputation for integrity and character.
 
“It was a great privilege to have met with him many times in the Blue Room at Ibrox and at grounds the length and breadth of the country during his long and illustrious career with Rangers.
 
“It was therefore no surprise to find, during his time on the Rangers board, that his contributions to our various discussions were hugely insightful, cogent and grounded in common sense for the betterment of the wider game.
 
“He will be sadly, sadly missed but his achievements across the decades - from his time with Dundee United, Scotland, and, of course, Rangers - serve as a fitting legacy for one of the true giants of our game.”

 SPFL Chairman Murdoch MacLennan said: “Walter Smith represented all that was good about our game. He was universally admired and respected, and with very good reason.
 
“His career ranks among the greatest ever in Scottish football’s long and illustrious history. Of course, Rangers fans hold him in the utmost regard for his long and proud association with their club, but Scottish football in its widest sense owes Walter an enormous debt of gratitude. 
 
“He was a true football man and he will be sorely missed by his many, many friends across the game. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.”