Everton manager Rafa Benitez has paid tribute to the “legendary and highly-respected” Walter Smith following his sad passing.
It was confirmed on Tuesday morning that Smith had sadly passed away aged 73 following a battle with illness.
Smith was appointed Everton manager in the summer of 1998 and in nearly four seasons with the club took charge of 168 matches.
The Scot also had two enormously successful periods with Rangers either side of his time on Merseyside.
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Smith achieved legendary status at Ibrox, with 21 trophies in his two spells with the club, making him the second most successful Rangers boss ever behind Bill Struth.
“Walter was highly-respected by everybody at Everton and it was the same everywhere in football,” Benitez told evertonfc.com.
“It is a really sad day for our club and our sport. We have lost one of the really good guys in our profession.
“I met Walter at Newcastle and we spent some time talking about football. I enjoyed spending that time in his company and he made a very good impression on me as a manager and a person.
“You read what Walter’s former players have said about him and the influence he had on their careers and lives is clear.
“He was a great professional and will be remembered as a legendary figure in football.”
Benitez then continued: “Walter’s achievements as a manager were incredible. Our Chairman spoke about how when Walter was here he kept fighting and showing his loyalty and talent.
“These are the things I have always heard about Walter. That he was fantastic as a football manager and even better as a person.”
