Former Rangers star Fernando Ricksen has died aged 43 after losing his battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
The Ibrox club confirmed his passing in a statement this morning (Wednesday).
The Dutch international player fought bravely against the illness for six years having been diagnosed in 2013.
The condition was the same as that suffered by Celtic great Jimmy Johnstone.
His former team supported Fernando and his family during this time, and paid tribute to Ricksen today.
Rangers said: "Rangers is deeply saddened to announce that former player Fernando Ricksen passed away this morning following his battle with motor neurone disease.
"Fernando spent six trophy-laden seasons at Ibrox having initially joined a number of other Dutch players under manager Dick Advocaat in the summer of 2000.
"Signing from AZ Alkmaar, he endured a difficult start to life in Glasgow, but in typical Fernando fashion, he worked hard in the face of adversity to become a mainstay in the side when Alex McLeish took over as manager in December 2001."
Ricksen went on to win two league titles, two Scottish Cups and three League Cups with the Light Blues.
Rangers' statement went on to say: "In October 2013, he revealed he was suffering from motor neurone disease, and since then, has fought a terrific battle against the condition, raising awareness and funds for the Fernando Ricksen Foundation which aims to help others suffering from the illness.
"A benefit match was held at Ibrox in January 2015, and attracted over 41,000 fans to Ibrox. It raised £320,000 with the proceeds split between Fernando, his daughter Isabella, MND Scotland and the Rangers Charity Foundation.
"A member of the Rangers Hall of Fame, he also won 12 caps for his native Holland.
"The thoughts of everyone at Rangers is today with his wife Veronika, his daughter Isabella and all his family and friends."
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