Former Premier League Club Manager Is Dead

Former Premier League Club Manager Is Dead

Former Everton manager Walter Smith 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.

After succeeding Liverpool-bound Graeme Souness is 1991, Lanark-born Smith steered Rangers to the last seven of their nine Scottish titles in a row through to 1997 and departed Ibrox for Goodison Park the following year.

Although he was unable to replicate his success north of the border during his time with Everton, that lasted just shy of four seasons, Smith was known for cutting a dignified figure in what was often a turbulent time behind the scenes at the club.

His position came under threat early on when star striker Duncan Ferguson was sold by chairman Peter Johnson to Newcastle United without his knowledge but Smith remained in charge until March 2002 when he was replaced by fellow Scot David Moyes.

Rangers 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.”