The world of football is paying tribute to former Everton boss Walter Smith who has died at the age of 73.
The news was confirmed by Rangers, the club where he spent the bulk of his coaching and managerial career.
Smith was in charge of the Blues for four years from 1998-2002, and he later had a stint as assistant manager at Manchester United.
During his time at Rangers, Smith guided the club to 21 major trophies including 10 Scottish Premiership titles, and he later had roles as the club’s chairman.
After Rangers confirmed the news, many members of the football world paid tribute to Smith.
One of those was former Everton striker Kevin Campbell, who was signed by Smith during his time at Goodison Park.
“R.I.P. Walter Smith you were such a great man and I can’t thank you enough for bringing me to @Everton a true football great,” wrote Campbell on Twitter.
Sir Kenny Dalglish mourned the loss of a "real footballing friend".
He said: "Marina and my heartfelt sympathies are with Walter’s wife Ethel & his boys. Though we were on opposing sides on the pitch, he was a real footballing friend off of it. He was respected by all and one of the few able to transcend rivalries. Today we have lost a truly great man. RIP"
Former Newcastle United goalkeeper and current Derby County coach Shay Given also paid tribute to Smith.
“Sad news about the passing of Walter Smith,” wrote Given, on Twitter. “A great football man, thoughts and prayers with his family and friends.”
Liverpool defender and Scotland captain Andy Robertson labelled Smith a "man of wisdom, dignity and integrity".
He said: "Thoughts, prayers and condolences with Walter Smith’s family and loved ones today. Heartbreaking to lose another great of Scottish football. A man of wisdom, dignity and integrity whose legacy will live on. May he rest in peace"
Gary Neville tweeted: "Terribly sad news about Walter Smith"
Former Rangers boss and current Queens Park Rangers manager Mark Warburton also offered his own tribute to Smith.
“Devastating news to hear of the sad passing of Walter Smith” Warburton wrote on Twitter.
“A man who was always on hand to help with advice and support. My thoughts and condolences are with his family at this most difficult time.”
Meanwhile Alan Shearer and Joey Barton also sent tributes on Twitter, while Rangers legend Ally McCoist paid an emotional tribute on TalkSPORT, calling Smith his mentor, father figure and best friend.
