STEVEN GERRARD penned a handwritten note to Walter Smith's family after the sad passing of the Rangers legend. 

The Ibrox hero sadly passed away yesterday at the age of 73.

Smith won 10 Scottish titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups over two spells in charge, as well as leading them to the UEFA Cup final in 2008. He retired in 2011 but had a brief spell as the club’s chairman.

In a handwritten note to Smith's family, Gerrard said: "To the Smith family.

"I am really sorry for your loss. On behalf of me and my staff I want to send our condolences.

"He was a huge support to us all. He will be sorely missed. 

"Lots of love, Steven Gerrard."

Glasgow Times:

Gerrard fought back tears as he spoke of being made “a better person” by Walter Smith, who has died aged 73.

Smith, who also managed Everton and Scotland in between stints as Ibrox boss, led Rangers to 10 top-flight titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups as well as to the 2008 UEFA Cup final.

Ahead of Wednesday’s home cinch Premiership game against Aberdeen, Gerrard, in an emotional interview with Rangers TV, told of the impact Smith had on him since he moved into the Gers hot-seat in 2018.

He said: “It is still obviously very raw but it is a very sad day for everyone connected to the club.

“Walter was an incredible leader, a very successful manager here at Rangers and he epitomised everything this club stands for. His DNA is all over the club and it is obviously very sad news.

“He has been right behind me since day one. I had many lunches, dinners, coffees and chats and private time with him in the office.

“He is obviously going to be a very big loss and miss to a lot of people.

“He is decorated all over the club and he will be forever because he gave many years to this club. He was honest, he was genuine and he has made me a better person so I have nothing but good words to say.

“I have been the lucky one to know him and spend time with him, so have a lot of other people who will have their own special memories of a great man.

“It is going to be emotional in the coming days and weeks but the best tribute I and we as a team can do is be united, get the fans behind us and try to win the game (on Wednesday). That will be the best tribute we can give.”