Walter Smith greatest Rangers boss signs off with third SPL title in row

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Walter Smith is arguably the greatest Rangers manager of all time and his achievements at Ibrox – crowned by another Scottish Premier League title  – make him one of the most successful bosses in world football.

A born and bred Rangers supporter who used to travel from his home in Carmyle in Glasgow’s East End to follow the team, he lived the ultimate dream. He was brought to the Club by Graeme Souness as assistant manager in 1986 and was at the hub of the renaissance of Rangers.

In his first spell as manager between 1991 and 1998 he led Rangers to a remarkable haul of 13 major trophies which included the Treble, the Double twice and, of course, 9 in a Row.

Arguably his second spell between 2007 and 2011 is even more impressive, winning seven major trophies and he also led Rangers to the UEFA Cup final in 2008.

Smith bowed out in style on today’s final day of the season as Rangers gave him the perfect send-off, wrapping up a third consecutive SPL title with a convincing 5-1 win at Kilmarnock.

Walter Smith’s farewell three in a row began with the SPL title win in 2009 that ended Celtic’s previous dominance.

BY JOHN GUBBA