Former Celtic star Chris Sutton leads the tributes to ‘true gentleman’ Walter Smith – the legendary ex-manager of fierce Glasgow rivals Rangers – after his death aged 73

By Kishan Vaghela For Mailonline

Former Celtic forward Chris Sutton has led tributes to Walter Smith, describing the former Rangers boss as a ‘true gentleman’ after he passed away at the age of 73.

The Ibrox club announced the death of their former manager – who won 10 league titles as boss over two spells and who also managed-Scotland – on Tuesday.

And Sportsmail columnist Sutton was among the first to send out his thoughts to the family of the former Everton boss.

Alan Shearer has led tributes to Walter Smith after he passed away at the age of 73

Alan Shearer has led tributes to Walter Smith after he passed away at the age of 73

Really sad news to hear of the passing of Walter Smith. He was a true gentleman. Thoughts and prayers go out to Walter’s family.

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) October 26, 2021

Sutton posted: ‘Really sad news to hear of the passing of Walter Smith. He was a true gentleman. Thoughts and prayers go out to Walter’s family.’

Ex-Newcastle stars Alan Shearer, Shay Given and Joey Barton also paid their respects to Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant.

Ex-midfielder Barton added: ‘RIP Walter. Great man,’ while former striker Shearer simply wrote: ‘RIP Legend’.

Former goalkeeper Given meanwhile posted: ‘Sad news about the passing of Walter Smith, A great football man, thoughts and prayers with his family and friends.’

Sad news about the passing of Walter Smith, A great football man, thoughts and prayers with his family and friends #RIPWalterSmith ??

— Shay Given (@No1shaygiven) October 26, 2021

Smith took charge at Goodison Park from 1998 to 2002, and his ex-Toffees forward Kevin Campbell wrote: ‘R.I.P. Walter Smith you were such a great man and I can’t thank you enough for bringing me to a true football great.’

Meanwhile, the Premier League club themselves posted: ‘A very sad day for football. Walter Smith OBE, former Rangers, Scotland and Everton manager, has passed away. A man held in high regard by all his players.

‘Our thoughts are with Walter’s loved ones at this tough time.’

Liverpool and Scotland left-back Andy Robertson also paid his respects, admitting he has been left ‘heartbroken’ by the news.

‘Thoughts, prayers and condolences with Walter Smith’s family and loved ones today,’ the defender wrote.

‘Heart-breaking to lose another great of Scottish football. A man of wisdom, dignity and integrity whose legacy will live on. May he rest in peace.’

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