WHAT THEY SAID

Former Rangers striker Mark Hateley ‘Utterly devastated over the passing of such a footballing legend, my greatest manager and above all, an even greater man. He taught me so much and I will miss his friendship. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Ethel, Neil, Steven and the family at this sad time.’ Former Rangers owner Sir David Murray and ex-manager Graeme Souness ‘Scottish football has lost one of its finest. Even in the proud history of Glasgow Rangers, Walter Smith stands out as a colossus. He will never be forgotten. His 21 titles and trophies between 1991 and 2011 not only earned respect in the Scottish and British game but across the entire footballing world. The Rangers family has lost someone very special.’ Scotland head coach Steve Clarke ‘Walter was a formidable manager and a formidable man. I had my first experience at the World Youth Championship when Walter was Andy Roxburgh’s assistant in 1983 and, even back then, he was impressive in his coaching and how he carried himself. He was always very supportive and terrific company when our paths crossed over the years. His loss will be felt profoundly across Scottish football.’ Scotland captain Andy Robertson (right) ‘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.’ Scotland legend Kenny Dalglish ‘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.’ Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou ‘When I heard the news I was trying to remember if we’d ever crossed paths. I don’t think we ever did. But I’m well aware of his achievements as a manager at club level and national team level. He was so well respected.’ Motherwell manager Graham Alexander ‘He sent me a great message when I came up here to work at Motherwell. It was fantastic of him to think of me at that time. To play under him (for Scotland) was an absolute privilege.’ Former Rangers striker Nacho Novo (left) ‘I will always take the first moment when he came into Rangers, he just knew how to deal with players, and I’m just so thankful to have played under him. He made me a better player and a better person. I’m just devastated now for him and his family, but a legend never dies. He will always be with us.’

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster

‘Walter was a true giant of the game with an unparalleled reputation for integrity and character. It was a great privilege to have met with him many times in the Blue Room at Ibrox and at grounds the length and breadth of the country during his long and illustrious career with Rangers. It was therefore no surprise to find, during his time on the Rangers board, that his contributions to our various discussions were hugely insightful, cogent and grounded in common sense for the betterment of the wider game. He will be sadly, sadly missed.’