Celtic have paid tribute to their former foe Walter Smith after the former Rangers and Scotland manager passed away.

The Ibrox Legend led Rangers through the 90s and matched a record set for by the Lisbon Lions of nine titles in a row.

The statement read:

Celtic Football Club has expressed its deepest sympathies following the sad news that former Rangers and Scotland manager Walter Smith has passed away after battling illness so bravely.

Clearly, this is absolutely devastating news and our thoughts and prayers are very much with Walter’s wife, children and wider family at this very sad time.

Walter was a tremendous servant to Scottish football for so many years, and during his time as manager of the Scotland national side, he forged a close friendship with Celtic legend, Tommy Burns, who was part of the coaching set-up.

Everyone at Celtic sends their heartfelt condolences.


He was a Rangers man through and through. However, the level of respect many Celtic fans had for Walter in his later years stemmed from his friendship with Tommy Burns and the emotional images as Walter Smith and Ally McCoist helped carry Tommy’s coffin after the Celtic legend passed away.

The news of Walter’s passing has been met with great sadness and respect by many former rivals. He was a rival but he was also a giant of Scottish football regardless of allegiance.

Tribalism and rivalry should be set aside during moments like this.

We send the Smith family our deepest condolences at this sad time.

RIP Walter.

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