Tributes have poured in for Fernando Ricksen after the Rangers legend sadly passed away this morning.
The former Ibrox defender died after a horrible battle with motor neurone disease at the age of 43.
Ricksen spent six seasons at the club after linking up with Dick Advocaat in 2000, winning two trebles and wearing the captain's armband.
The fan favourite also had spells with AZ Alkmaar, Fortuna Sittard and Zenit St Petersburg.
His former team-mate and close friend Peter Lovenkrands said: "You looked after me when we signed at Rangers together, taking me back and forward to training because I didn’t have a car, great memories on and off the pitch! A true warrior and leader on the pitch! You’ll be truly missed. RIP my friend."
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell also reacted to the tragic news: "Everyone at Celtic would like to extend their most sincere and heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Fernando Ricksen following today’s news that he has passed away.
“Fernando was part of Scottish Football for a number of years and for him to be taken so young is a huge tragedy.
“He fought this terrible condition with such courage and we should all admire and respect the inspirational way in which he tackled the challenge which he faced.
“He showed immense bravery throughout. Our thoughts and prayers of course are with Fernando’s family and friends at such a difficult time.”
Ex-Celtic midfielder Stiliyan Petrov added: "Rest in Peace my friend. True fighter on and off the pitch. My thoughts are with your family & friends."
talkSPORT and Sky Sports News presenter Jim White tweeted: "So saddened to hear the news that former Rangers full-back Fernando Ricksen has died aged 43. Brave Fernando revealed back in 2013 he had motor neurone disease."
Former Rangers Kyle Hutton midfielder said: "RIP Fernando Ricksen."
BT Sport reporter Emma Dodds, who previously worked at Rangers, said: "So deeply saddened by the news Fernando Ricksen has passed away. He was an absolute hoot to work with during his Rangers days, there was never a dull moment. That’s the guy I’ll remember because in all the madness was a heart of gold. He fought so hard."
MND Scotland added: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Fernando Ricksen has lost his courageous battle with Motor Neurone Disease. Fernando’s bravery in sharing both his shocking diagnosis and his life with MND has been inspirational."
Aberdeen tweeted: "Our thoughts are with the family & friends of Fernando Ricksen who has sadly passed away following a brave battle against Motor Neurone Disease."
His former team Zenit said: "We're deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former player Fernando Ricksen. He battled bravely against motor neurone disease right until the end and we are all thinking of him and his family at this difficult time."
