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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Pirie

Walter Smith remembered as Rangers fans hail 'best manager we have ever had' after emotional Ibrox goodbye

Heartbroken Rangers fans have paid tribute to their legendary manager Walter Smith after he made his final visit to Ibrox.

A private family ceremony was held for the iconic boss, who passed away aged 73.

However, mourners were able to pay their respects to a giant of Scottish football as the cortege of the iconic manager passed the home of Rangers.

Hundreds lined the streets and applauded, threw scarves or were waving flags as the cortege drove in the direction of Paisley Road West.

The former Scotland and Everton manager found his greatest success with Rangers, lifting 21 trophies and reaching the UEFA Cup Final.

On the day Smith was laid to rest there was an outpouring of emotions from supporters.

One lifelong Rangers fan stated to Record Sport : "I think everyone felt safe when Walter was in charge, and he was the leader, and we were quite happy for him to lead us wherever he would take us.

"He gave us great fun and great memories. He was always 100 per cent a club person.

"He would never do anything that would upset anyone or do anything against the club. He was marvellous.

"He will be remembered with great reverence and go down as probably the best manager we have ever had."

Another added: "In my memories of Rangers, Walter Smith is always linked. Even if he wasn't here, even if we were going through tough times, we always thought he would come and save us

"It was like losing a family member."

A fan also sent his goodwill to the Smith family at this tough time.

He said: "I'm happy for his family that they are getting support from other people, and can see how important he is to other people. Hopefully that brings them some comfort.

"I think he was a gentleman in football. He didn't rant and rave at other people, he was always balanced in his comments."

One summed it up perfectly, summarising: "He was a legend, just an absolute legend. You can't really put it any other way than that. He will be sorely missed."

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