Rangers have confirmed that Walter Smith has died at the age of 73.
The Ibrox club posted a message on their website this morning saying that the iconic manager and chairman had passed away.
Smith underwent surgery in March of this year but was back out in public last month when he attended a charity golf event at Loch Lomond.
Smith managed his boyhood heroes during the 1990s after succeeding Graeme Souness who he assisted at the Light Blues and led the club to an historic nine consecutive titles.
He departed Ibrox and managed Everton and the Scotland national team before returning for a second spell as Rangers boss.
In his playing days, Smith notably turned out for Jim McLean's Dundee United and Dumbarton.
Announcing the sad news, and paying tribute to Smith, Chairman Douglas Park said: “On behalf of the Rangers board of directors, staff and players, I convey my deep condolences to the Smith family.
"Walter leaves behind a wife, children and grandchildren, all of whom are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
“It is almost impossible to encapsulate what Walter meant to every one of us at Rangers. He embodied everything that a Ranger should be.
"His character and leadership was second to none, and will live long in the memory of everyone he worked with during his two terms as first team manager.
“I spoke with Walter as recently as last weekend. Even when he was battling illness, he was still able to provide advice and support. For that, I am personally grateful.
"I know that he continued also to maintain dialogue with senior members of staff, including our manager, Steven Gerrard.
“Walter will be sorely missed by all of us at Rangers.
“Winning 10 top-flight titles as manager, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups, as well as leading his club to the UEFA Cup Final in 2008, he will be remembered by the football community across the world.
"His spells as Scotland manager as well as managing in the English Premier League underlined his credentials as one of the great modern day football managers.
“However, for Rangers supporters, he was much more than just a football manager. Walter was a friend to many, a leader, an ambassador and most of all-a legend.”
