Rangers announce statue of Walter Smith on first anniversary of legendary manager’s death

A statue has been commissioned by Rangers to pay tribute to legendary manager Walter Smith.

On the first anniversary of his death, the club announced that a sculpture commemorating his achievements would stand at the Copland Road end of Ibrox Stadium.

On the first anniversary of his passing, Rangers Football Club are today pleased to announce a statue of legendary manager Walter Smith has been commissioned to commemorate his incredible achievements at the club.

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) October 26, 2022

Rangers said: “On the first anniversary of his passing, Rangers Football Club are today pleased to announce a statue of legendary manager Walter Smith has been commissioned to commemorate his incredible achievements at the club.

“In the modern era, nobody contributed more to Rangers than Walter. He served as assistant manager, manager, and Chairman, with his spells as manager yielding an incredible 10 top-flight titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups.

“A boyhood supporter who more than lived the dream, future generations will be met with this new sculpture at the famed Copland Road end of Ibrox Stadium.”

Sir Kenny Dalglish: His career makes him a football legend but anyone who met Walter Smith will remember the man – a good, wise, strong and decent man

The world of football paid tribute to Smith a year ago when news of his death was announced.

In an emotional broadcast on TalkSport, Ally McCoist said: ““I could sit here and tell you about Walter Smith until the cows come home, but what I will say he was the best husband, father, friend, everything you want from a man.”

Today we remember the great Walter Smith

Quite simply, nobody understood Rangers better, nobody had better leadership qualities, and nobody won more. pic.twitter.com/3bGMTLL67k

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) October 26, 2022

Rangers boss at the time, Steven Gerrard, said: ““He loved the club, he was honest and genuine. He has made me a better person.”

And Sir Alex Ferguson said: “He listened and showed an interest in people and helped everyone he could. It’s such a loss to the game and to everyone that knew him. I’ll miss him greatly.”