Tom English
BBC Scotland's chief sports writer on Sportsound

There’s an image of Walter Smith that will be frozen in the mind’s eye forever more - a picture of health and intensity, a giant who controlled whatever room he walked into, not by noise but by presence. His knowledge and his nous was rare. His personality - one that made you sit up straight in your seat when he appeared - was a brilliant amalgam of serious football man and hilarious storyteller. For all the trophies he won it’s the strength of his character that will endure. The great man has sadly left us but his aura will never be shifted. That will remain. For all-time.

Image source, SNS

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to the late Walter Smith.

"Very sad to hear of the death of former Rangers and Scotland manager, Walter Smith - he was a true football great," she said., external

"My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues across the world of football."

If you would like to pay tribute to Walter Smith, you can do so on Twitter. Tweet with the hashtag #BBCSportScot

Rangers chairman Douglas Park told the Rangers 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.

“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.

Image source, SNS

“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.

Image source, SNS

"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.”

Good morning.

Rangers have announced the news that Walter Smith, the club's legendary manager and one of Scotland's finest ever bosses, has passed away at the age of 73.

Please stay with us as we bring you tributes from across football and sport.

Image source, bBBC