RANGERS MOURN DEATH OF WING KING HUBBARD

RANGERS last night paid tribute to Johnny Hubbard after his death at the age of 87. Between 1949 and 1959 the legendary winger made 238 competitive appearances, scoring 104 goals after emigrating from South Africa. Known as the ‘Penalty King’ for his remarkable record of 65 spot-kicks scored from 68 attempts, the Ibrox icon featured in the club’s first foray into Europe, against Nice in 1956-57, becoming the first African-born player to play and score in the European Cup. Hubbard (below) also remains the last player to score a league hat-trick against Celtic, during a 4-1 win on New Year’s Day 1955. ‘All of us at Rangers are deeply saddened by the news that Mr Hubbard has passed away,’ said Ibrox chairman Dave King. ‘He was an inspirational player for Rangers and was also one of our most passionate supporters. ‘Mr Hubbard wasn’t just a great Ranger, he was also a wonderful person. He was a gentleman and will be missed terribly by everyone connected with our club. ‘Our thoughts and our sympathies go to Mr Hubbard’s family, but perhaps they may take some comfort in knowing he is a genuine Rangers legend.’ Hubbard, who lived in Ayrshire, continued to travel to games at Ibrox until recently and managing director Stewart Robertson added: ‘This is a profoundly sad day for Rangers. ‘Mr Hubbard, apart from being a great player, was a true supporter of this club and will be missed badly. ‘He became a welcome fixture around Ibrox and his legendary status is assured. I would like to offer my sincere condolences to his family.’ After a decade playing under Bill Struth and Scot Symon at Rangers, where he won three league titles and a Scottish Cup winners’ medal, Hubbard left Ibrox in 1959 and had three years at Bury before returning to Scotland to finish his career with Ayr United. He had also been inducted into the Rangers Hall of Fame.