Former Everton manager Walter Smith dies aged 73

  • Report by ITV News correspondent Peter Smith


Former Everton, Scotland and Rangers manager Walter Smith has died aged 73.

Smith led Rangers to 10 top-flight titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups as well as to the UEFA Cup final in 2008

A former Dundee United and Dumbarton defender, Smith was appointed manager at Ibrox in 1991, succeeding Graeme Souness.

He won 13 major trophies in seven years, including seven league titles in succession, before leaving at the end of the 1997/98 season and subsequently joining Everton.

He stayed at Goodison Park for four seasons before a brief stint as assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

Smith was appointed Scotland manager in December 2004 and was in charge for three years before returning to Rangers, where he won a further eight trophies before retiring in 2011 after completing another domestic double. 

Ex-Everton striker Kevin Campbell was among those paying tribute to his former manager, saying on Twitter: "Walter Smith you were such a great man and I can’t thank you enough for bringing me to Everton."

In a statement Rangers said: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our former manager, chairman and club legend, Walter Smith."

Rangers chairman Douglas Park added on the club's website: "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."