Walter Smith RIP

[CentreLine]

Shocked to hear he passed today. One of Scotland’s finest managers

Can only think that was unexpected and thoughts have to be with his family and friends.

[overdrive]

Shocked to hear he passed today. One of Scotland’s finest managers

Can only think that was unexpected and thoughts have to be with his family and friends.

I'm sure I read that he had been ill.

Very sad news.

[Sir David Gray]

Only 73, didn't expect that at all.

R.I.P.

[Brightside]

Yep RIP. I always had respect for him as a manager.

[Golden Bear]

RIP Walter.

A true football man and a genuinely decent guy.

[lord bunberry]

One of the few Rangers men that I had some respect for. Sad to hear he’s dead.

[leith lynx]

Only 73, didn't expect that at all.

R.I.P.
Sad to hear, one of the good guys, RIP.

[Perfect Hatrick]

RIP. An outstanding manager.

[Scouse Hibee]

RIP Walter Smith, great manager and decent guy, always very friendly when Rangers stayed at the Caley.

[Hiber-nation]

Couple of guys I used to work beside (Hibs and Celtic fans) bumped into him and McCoist in a Glasgow boozer a few years back, they knew Coisty would be fine but they were genuinely surprised at what a good guy Walter Smith was, would have blethered for ages about tactics and man management and more than happy to have a laugh at his own expense.

RIP.

[Scorrie]

Very sad news. His interview with Chick Young on you tube is one of the funniest things ever.

[Broken Gnome]

That run to the UEFA Cup Final was one of the most bizarrely brilliant achievements in Scottish football, definitely in my lifetime anyway.

Got Scotland back to a decent level as well. One to respect. RIP.

[Scorrie]

That run to the UEFA Cup Final was one of the most bizarrely brilliant achievements in Scottish football, definitely in my lifetime anyway.

Got Scotland back to a decent level as well. One to respect. RIP.

And only one game from a Champions League final with Rangers as well

[TelaStella]

Shocked and saddened to hear this. It’s a rare time to put all allegiances aside for a time and reflect with dignity. If there was few Rangers men you’d find time for, he’d be up there at the top. Scotland’s fortunate to have produced some outstanding stock of managers over the years and after the Steins, Shanks and Fergusons there’s few that would come close to Walter Smith. Thoughts wholeheartedly to his family at this time.


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[SHODAN]

RIP Walter.

[bigwheel]

Very sad news..great football guy.

[evy]

Absolutely astounding manager. What he achieved with both Rangers and Scotland was incredible (made me fall back in love with the national team).

Sad loss to Scottish football. RIP.

[AugustaHibs]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.

[Perfect Hatrick]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.

I’d like to think there will be and I’d like to think even Celtic fans could respect it.

[HendoDelivered]

Awful. RIP Walter

[Stokesy's on fire]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.


It won't be.

RIP Walter Smith he was a class manager for Rangers and a decent guy to go with it.

[Broken Gnome]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.

Be pretty surprised if it's not an applause, as that generally seems the done thing these days.

[SHODAN]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.

It'll be a minute's applause.

[Greenbeard]

It won't be.

RIP Walter Smith he was a class manager for Rangers and a decent guy to go with it.
Not so sure. There's just as many disrespectful bams in the Tic support as there are in The The Huns support.
An applause would be better than a silence.

[CentreLine]

Be pretty surprised if it's not an applause, as that generally seems the done thing these days.

Hopefully and it leaves the idiots with nowhere to go

[hibby6270]

RIP Walter Smith.
In managerial terms, a true great in the Scottish game.

[matty_f]

Sad to hear this, was one of the giants of the Scottish game and seemed to be respected throughout the country.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Very sad news. He'd been unwell for a while. I always thought he seemed a nice guy, and what a record he had at Sevco: one of the best in the Scottish game. An old school manager; the type disappearing from the game.

RIP Walter.

[Pretty Boy]

I always liked Walter Smith. A Rangers man but he seemed to rise above all of the nonsense. His relationship, prifessional and personal, with a Celtic legend like Tommy Burns was testament to that.

Done a good turn for Scotland as well.

[Peevemor]

Sad news.

He was always very respectful when speaking of the opposition, whoever they were.

And he gave us that Chick Young interview.

RIP Walter.

[Pretty Boy]

Not so sure. There's just as many disrespectful bams in the Tic support as there are in The The Huns support.
An applause would be better than a silence.

I'd be surprised if Celtic fans interrupted any tribute to Smith.

He's one of those guys most Celtic fans I know had a grudging respect for. I mentioned his friendship with Tommy Burns in my previous post. Snith acted as a pall bearer at his funeral, along with Ally McCoist. The Priest leading the Mass specifically commented on that and I think the Celtic support, or the majority at any rate, appreciated it.

[Bostonhibby]

Decent person and a football man I always had time for. RIP

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[JimBHibees]

I always liked Walter Smith. A Rangers man but he seemed to rise above all of the nonsense. His relationship, prifessional and personal, with a Celtic legend like Tommy Burns was testament to that.

Done a good turn for Scotland as well.

Agree so did I a genuine football guy who seemed very popular. Can remember the times we did beat his team he always would credit us with his comments which other managers famously didn't do. RIP.

[Shrekko]

I'd be surprised if Celtic fans interrupted any tribute to Smith.

He's one of those guys most Celtic fans I know had a grudging respect for. I mentioned his friendship with Tommy Burns in my previous post. Snith acted as a pall bearer at his funeral, along with Ally McCoist. The Priest leading the Mass specifically commented on that and I think the Celtic support, or the majority at any rate, appreciated it.

Agree-there is no way on earth that Celtic fans would show disrespect.

RIP Walter

[eezyrider]

Always liked him. Sad to hear of his passing.

Spot the Cat to Sounesses Honk Kong Fooey.

EZ

[weecounty hibby]

A great footballing man who seems to have been respected across the board from all sides. Was doing a great job for Scotland when he chose his club team first, hard to disagree with that as a supporter of a club side.

RIP

[Pretty Boy]

Agree-there is no way on earth that Celtic fans would show disrespect.

RIP Walter

I think the Aberdeen fans on Wednesday might be a bigger issue. I had a quick glance at Kerrydale Street and it's very respectful and decent. AFC Chat on the other hand.......

[DaveF]

I think the Aberdeen fans on Wednesday might be a bigger issue. I had a quick glance at Kerrydale Street and it's very respectful and decent. AFC Chat on the other hand.......

It would take a special breed of idiot to disrupt any silence at Ibrox on Wednesday, knowing that cameras will be focused in on that support waiting to capture it.

[Callyballybe]

Sad to hear this, a great in the Scottish game.

Thoughts are with his family.

[AltheHibby]

RIP to one of the greats.

[surreyhibbie]

Sad news, a fine manager and more importantly, a fine man.

Condolences to his family

[Stevie Reid]

Really sad news. Liked Smith, didn’t appreciate just how good a manager he was until he took the Scotland job.

Was particularly impressed with him during the liquidation and post-2012, Charles Green era, bile and madness that was coming out of Ibrox at that time – he never bought into it and spoke sensibly.

[J-C]

Wow! Didn't expect news like that today, thoughts are with his family at this time. Although a true blue nose he was a very good manager and one of Scotland's better ones. R.I.P.

[Perfect Hatrick]

I think the Aberdeen fans on Wednesday might be a bigger issue. I had a quick glance at Kerrydale Street and it's very respectful and decent. AFC Chat on the other hand.......

Jesus Christ.

I’ve just been on there and that may be the worst thread I’ve seen on a forum.

Well, until someone posted a link on the thread to a news article condemning a previous thread on their website regarding Ricksen..

[Greencore]

Always liked Walter Smith, came across as a decent and dignified guy. Got the feeling he wasn't into the bigotry, carried the late Tommy Burns coffin and was heart broken at his passing. One of scotland's most respected figures of the game. Rest in peace Walter ❤️🤍💙

[SHODAN]

Jesus Christ.

I’ve just been on there and that may be the worst thread I’ve seen on a forum.

Well, until someone posted a link on the thread to a news article condemning a previous thread on their website regarding Ricksen..

Just seen it myself, utterly shocking.

[stoneyburn hibs]

RIP
A very likeable man.

[blackpoolhibs]

I have no time for anyone who works for that lot knowing what the whole club stands for, but my condolences do go out to his family.

[Since452]

I have no time for anyone who works for that lot knowing what the whole club stands for, but my condolences do go out to his family.

We better ask big Daz to leave and hand back his medal then.

[Blaster]

RIP Walter

If people can’t just pay their respects, surely best not to post on this thread at all

[J-C]

Absolutely shocking post which has no right be on this board, I hope the admins launch you from the site.

[theonlywayisup]

Very sad news. His interview with Chick Young on you tube is one of the funniest things ever.

A classic!

Walter Smith vs Chick Young Interview - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0DZ87Eupa0)

I'm sure that there are many of the younger generation that wouldn't have seen it, but take time to watch it now. I'm sure many a football manager would love to respond to daft questions from media experts who have never performed at any level, far less playing at the highest levels of European football, in such a way.

[Stokesy's on fire]

Not so sure. There's just as many disrespectful bams in the Tic support as there are in The The Huns support.
An applause would be better than a silence.


sadly all supports have idiots but i'm confident the Celtic fans will behave tomorrow night

[Since452]

I can see beyond my utter hatred of Rangers football club and their Neanderthal support to show a bit of respect to someone who, by all accounts, was a good man as well as a Scottish football legend.

[Greenbeard]

sadly all supports have idiots but i'm confident the Celtic fans will behave tomorrow night
How many will they be bringing? Close to 4,000? It would only take a handful of bams in that 4,000 to ruin a silence, and even if the respectful Tic supporters were to shout them down, they too are contributing to disruption to the silence. Hence an applause is the better option. Just clap louder to drown out any heckling.

[WoreTheGreen]

Met him at Largs training course a absolute nice man . If I recall his Nickname was Biffo the bear

[Jim44]

Horrendous news.

Will there be a minute silence tomorrow? If so, I really hope it’s not ruined by the away crowd.

Going by the posts on KS, all very respectful with no snide or negative comments, I think it will be ok.

[The Harp]

Sorry to hear of the passing of Walter Smith. A good man by all accounts, with a football knowledge up there with the very best. Condolences to family and friends.

RIP

[One Day Soon]

I was just thinking about him the other day, wondering what he was now doing. Seems a relatively young age to pass away. Sad news.

[gbhibby]

Met him at Largs training course a absolute nice man . If I recall his Nickname was Biffo the bear

Huge heavy rock fan, Bruce Dickinson was the pilot on one of The Rangers charter flight to a European game.

[AliboyFC]

Jesus christ that AFC chat thread is shocking. RIP.

[I'm Spartacus]

What a guy, what a guy. A legend of the Scottish game.

RIP.

[Smartie]

Jesus christ that AFC chat thread is shocking. RIP.

Without question the worst thread I have seen on any forum at any point since the internet was invented - and that's saying something.

I liked Smith as a Scotland manager and was disappointed when he went back to Rangers as I thought he was on the cusp of helping us become a decent side again. Rangers were his team though, so you never really begrudge someone that opportunity.

Anyone I know who met him only had positive things to say about him.

He'll have a few things in the negative column but that's always going to be the way in Scottish football - which at times can divide as much as it can draw people together.

The fact that he has still managed to generate the response he has on the Celtic thread speaks volumes for the man. The fact that this subject generated the response it did amongst the Aberdeen fans on that thread speaks volumes about them. They need to have a wee word with themselves.

RIP

[overdrive]

Without question the worst thread I have seen on any forum at any point since the internet was invented - and that's saying something.

I liked Smith as a Scotland manager and was disappointed when he went back to Rangers as I thought he was on the cusp of helping us become a decent side again. Rangers were his team though, so you never really begrudge someone that opportunity.

Anyone I know who met him only had positive things to say about him.

He'll have a few things in the negative column but that's always going to be the way in Scottish football - which at times can divide as much as it can draw people together.

The fact that he has still managed to generate the response he has on the Celtic thread speaks volumes for the man. The fact that this subject generated the response it did amongst the Aberdeen fans on that thread speaks volumes about them. They need to have a wee word with themselves.

RIP

Some of the images/memes posted to that thread are shocking.

[Just_Jimmy]

Was shocked to hear this this morning. Rangers through and through but always seemed a decent guy and did well for Scotland. I thank him for beating France at Hampden the weekend of my 21st birthday.

The comments on the Aberdeen forum are utterly vile and as such, I hope they get smashed tomorrow night.

RIP

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[lyonhibs]

Great manager and a thoroughly decent bloke by all accounts. His team dominated Scottish football for a decade more or less and I never felt any real non footballing animosity towards him. Can you honestly say that of any OF manager since more or less?

[greenlex]

Sad to hear. Met him a few times and as others have said liked to blether football no matter your allegiances.

[Perfect Hatrick]

Was shocked to hear this this morning. Rangers through and through but always seemed a decent guy and did well for Scotland. I thank him for beating France at Hampden the weekend of my 21st birthday.

The comments on the Aberdeen forum are utterly vile and as such, I hope they get smashed tomorrow night.

RIP

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Yup. I hope Rangers humiliate them.

[dp00]

Unless I’ve missed it not a great look that hibs haven’t put anything up about it on socials given all the other clubs have , he without doubt is a legend of Scottish football regardless of the team


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[Hiber-nation]

Unless I’ve missed it not a great look that hibs haven’t put anything up about it on socials given all the other clubs have , he without doubt is a legend of Scottish football regardless of the team


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They have.

[Perfect Hatrick]

Unless I’ve missed it not a great look that hibs haven’t put anything up about it on socials given all the other clubs have , he without doubt is a legend of Scottish football regardless of the team


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They put something on Facebook.

[CropleyWasGod]

Unless I’ve missed it not a great look that hibs haven’t put anything up about it on socials given all the other clubs have , he without doubt is a legend of Scottish football regardless of the team


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http://https://twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1452940230722469896 (https://twitter.com/HibernianFC/status/1452940230722469896)

[Jones28]

Without question the worst thread I have seen on any forum at any point since the internet was invented - and that's saying something.

I liked Smith as a Scotland manager and was disappointed when he went back to Rangers as I thought he was on the cusp of helping us become a decent side again. Rangers were his team though, so you never really begrudge someone that opportunity.

Anyone I know who met him only had positive things to say about him.

He'll have a few things in the negative column but that's always going to be the way in Scottish football - which at times can divide as much as it can draw people together.

The fact that he has still managed to generate the response he has on the Celtic thread speaks volumes for the man. The fact that this subject generated the response it did amongst the Aberdeen fans on that thread speaks volumes about them. They need to have a wee word with themselves.

RIP


:agree:

It's absolutely obscene some of the things those ***** are posting.

RIP Walter Smith

[gbhibby]

Without question the worst thread I have seen on any forum at any point since the internet was invented - and that's saying something.

I liked Smith as a Scotland manager and was disappointed when he went back to Rangers as I thought he was on the cusp of helping us become a decent side again. Rangers were his team though, so you never really begrudge someone that opportunity.

Anyone I know who met him only had positive things to say about him.

He'll have a few things in the negative column but that's always going to be the way in Scottish football - which at times can divide as much as it can draw people together.

The fact that he has still managed to generate the response he has on the Celtic thread speaks volumes for the man. The fact that this subject generated the response it did amongst the Aberdeen fans on that thread speaks volumes about them. They need to have a wee word with themselves.

RIP
Think that this goes back to the stuff posted against Neil Simpson by Rangers fans. Not making excuses thought Aberdeen fans were brilliant when we had the applause for Liam Miller The people who post these types of things on the Internet are brainless idiots and unfortunately every club has them, some more than others.

[Billy Whizz]

Think that this goes back to the stuff posted against Neil Simpson by Rangers fans. Not making excuses thought Aberdeen fans were brilliant when we had the applause for Liam Millar. The people who post these types of things on the Internet are brainless idiots and unfortunately every club has them, some more than others.

Well I hope the Aberdeen fans observe the minutes silence tomorrow

[Squealing pig]

Best manager I seen in Scotland RIP

[90274]

RIP Walter.

A true Scottish football man.

[Since452]

Aberdeen fans proving they are the huns of the north. Odious.

I hated Walter Smith back in the 90's when I was a youngster. Mainly because they horsed us a good few times.

Grew to respect him. Especially when he was manager of Scotland. Sad loss. RIP.

[Cropley10]

I always liked Walter Smith. A Rangers man but he seemed to rise above all of the nonsense. His relationship, prifessional and personal, with a Celtic legend like Tommy Burns was testament to that.

Done a good turn for Scotland as well.

Yes. He and McCoist carried Burn's coffin at his funeral, proving all the emnity between the fans doesn't exist at their level.

[allmodcons]

I have no time for anyone who works for that lot knowing what the whole club stands for, but my condolences do go out to his family.

I'm kinda with you on this one BH.

The thread on AFC Chat is beyond embarrassing but some of praise for him as a football manager just appears entirely hypocritical to me.

This is a guy who, with David Murray's backing, financed player deals via EBTs thereby making an uneven playing field even more uneven (if that makes sense).

He's a 'Rangers Legend' though so any criticism will just be frowned upon by a sycophantic press.

I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club.

Aberdeen fans will (quite rightly) get slaughtered by our media if they interrupt the minute's silence on Wednesday night but guess who will be silent when "up to our knees in Fenian blood" is belted out from all 4 stands at Ibrox.

[mcohibs]

I'm kinda with you on this one BH.

The thread on AFC Chat is beyond embarrassing but some of praise for him as a football manager just appears entirely hypocritical to me.

This is a guy who, with David Murray's backing, financed player deals via EBTs thereby making an uneven playing field even more uneven (if that makes sense).

He's a 'Rangers Legend' though so any criticism will just be frowned upon by a sycophantic press.

I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club.

Aberdeen fans will (quite rightly) get slaughtered by our media if they interrupt the minute's silence on Wednesday night but guess who will be silent when "up to our knees in Fenian blood" is belted out from all 4 stands at Ibrox.

Have a day off ffs, a man is dead. A giant figure in Scottish football. May he rest in peace.

[theonlywayisup]

I'm kinda with you on this one BH.

The thread on AFC Chat is beyond embarrassing but some of praise for him as a football manager just appears entirely hypocritical to me.

This is a guy who, with David Murray's backing, financed player deals via EBTs thereby making an uneven playing field even more uneven (if that makes sense).

He's a 'Rangers Legend' though so any criticism will just be frowned upon by a sycophantic press.

I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club.

Aberdeen fans will (quite rightly) get slaughtered by our media if they interrupt the minute's silence on Wednesday night but guess who will be silent when "up to our knees in Fenian blood" is belted out from all 4 stands at Ibrox.

:bitchy: not the time

[WeeRussell]

I'm kinda with you on this one BH.

The thread on AFC Chat is beyond embarrassing but some of praise for him as a football manager just appears entirely hypocritical to me.

This is a guy who, with David Murray's backing, financed player deals via EBTs thereby making an uneven playing field even more uneven (if that makes sense).

He's a 'Rangers Legend' though so any criticism will just be frowned upon by a sycophantic press.

I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club.

Aberdeen fans will (quite rightly) get slaughtered by our media if they interrupt the minute's silence on Wednesday night but guess who will be silent when "up to our knees in Fenian blood" is belted out from all 4 stands at Ibrox.

“Any criticism” will be frowned upon by most right-thinking people given the man died today.

RIP

[gbhibby]

https://youtu.be/dG27qGTMXa4
Walter giving it to Chick Young

[jacomo]

Have a day off ffs, a man is dead. A giant figure in Scottish football. May he rest in peace.


Cant add to this really.

Show a little class people.

[CropleyWasGod]

https://youtu.be/dG27qGTMXa4
Walter giving it to Chick Young

WS was embarrassed about this in later years, as it showed him him in a bad light to his grandkids.😁

[Eyrie]

A very good manager, and by all accounts an even better person. RIP.

[Peevemor]

https://youtu.be/dG27qGTMXa4
Walter giving it to Chick YoungI haven't watched that in years - it's hilarious. I wonder how many managers would like to let go like that in some post match interviews.

[Hibby70]

The best clip is where he slaps durrant up in the stand.

[Since452]

I haven't watched that in years - it's hilarious. I wonder how many managers would like to let go like that in some post match interviews.

I always thought Smith was having a right go at Young, but listening to it again today and hearing what I have about Walter Smith, there is definitely humour in there as well. I don't think he was being completely serious but he still made his point.

[CMurdoch]

Huge heavy rock fan, Bruce Dickinson was the pilot on one of The Rangers charter flight to a European game.

I saw him at a Crosby Stills Nash gig at the Playhouse in 2005.
Was pleased to see folk left him alone to enjoy his night with his pals
RIP

[lord bunberry]

https://youtu.be/dG27qGTMXa4
Walter giving it to Chick Young
:faf: That never gets old that one.

[StockholmHibs]

I've always hated Rangers. Even more so than hearts, but for me Walter smith and Ally Mcoist were the total exceptions.
Walter was a great manager and a true gent. I am genuinely saddened by this news. RIP great one!
Just had another look at the walter chick interview on YouTube to cheer me up😁😁 Hilarious.

[ekhibee]

What swayed it for me was when he helped carry Tommy Burns' coffin. That was something I didn't really expect, but credit where credit's due. He had a dry sense of humour which is similar to mine, good on him. I used to really dislike him, at the time I was of the opinion that the only reason he was so successful with Rangers was because they had loads of money and nobody else did, then he failed at Everton which for me suggested he was only a success because of Murray's money. But that would be unfair. I know several people who have met him, none of them Rangers fans, and they all spoke highly of him. He was a much more approachable person away from the cameras, and was extremely knowledgeable when it came to tactics and positioning, and was more than happy to talk football to others outside Rangers/Sevco too. He will be missed, and rightly so. RIP Walter.

[Tobias Funke]

A genuine Scottish football legend and a top bloke too. I’ve watched THAT Chick Young interview a couple of times today, glorious dismantling of an interviewer out of his depth.

RIP Walter.

[Pagan Hibernia]

The Aberdeen forum is hideous in general. Probably the worst in Scottish football. Absolutely savage.

[SMAXXA]

Nice to see messages of support from clubs across the country in memory of Walter Smith. Nice touch

[EdinMike]

I’m sure someone mentioned it prior, but whenever we beat his team he would always compliment the way we played instead of berating his own team or officials. Hope he gets the silence/applause he deserves tomorrow.

[paul_hfc3]

Have a day off ffs, a man is dead. A giant figure in Scottish football. May he rest in peace.

Is he not allowed to provide an opinion that differs from your own? I think the original post was respectful.

[FilipinoHibs]

Very sad news. A good man who went beyond the sectarian divide. RIP Walter.

[green day]

Sad news for his family, he seemed like a decent guy and his friendship with Tommy Burns should have been a catalyst for those two clubs to improve their off field issues.

BBC Radio Scotland might need to reign in its coverage though, its getting a bit mawkish this morning.

[mcohibs]

Is he not allowed to provide an opinion that differs from your own? I think the original post was respectful.

Talking about sectarian singing, EBTs and how he has 'little respect' for anyone involved with rangers I'd suggest is fairly crass and irrelevant.

[allmodcons]

Talking about sectarian singing, EBTs and how he has 'little respect' for anyone involved with rangers I'd suggest is fairly crass and irrelevant.

Just how is an issue like sectarianism EVER irrelevant?

My original comment was honest nothing more nothing less. I don't think it's up to you to dictate when I should or shouldn't "give it a rest".

[mcohibs]

Just how is an issue like sectarianism EVER irrelevant?

My original comment was honest nothing more nothing less. I don't think it's up to you to dictate when I should or shouldn't "give it a rest".

Not up to me to dictate at all but I am entitled to give my opinion, as are you.

My opinion is that it's a bit of a reach to scatter gun issues of sectarianism alongside EBTs when discussing the life of a man who was by all accounts a great person and largely respected across Scottish football.

If you asked his family, I'd imagine that he was not a sectarian person at any level of his being, so yes, irrelevant.

[bigwheel]

Just how is an issue like sectarianism EVER irrelevant?

My original comment was honest nothing more nothing less. I don't think it's up to you to dictate when I should or shouldn't "give it a rest".

There are many threads to discuss those points - this thread is about respecting the memory of a great scottish football contributor . Can we not focus on the humanity of it in here ..and leave the other topics to other threads ??

[superfurryhibby]

When the dust settles and the eulogising calms down, perhaps then we can consider the dichotomy of how being a decent guy reconciles with being the figurehead of a vile organisation for so many years? IN the meantime , R.I.P Walter.

[lyonhibs]

When the dust settles and the eulogising calms down, perhaps then we can consider the dichotomy of how being a decent guy reconciles with being the figurehead of a vile organisation for so many years? IN the meantime , R.I.P Walter.

I'm not sure David Murray is so universally recognized as a decent guy tbf.

Like you say, R.I.P Walter

[LancsHibs]

RIP A proper football man, will be sadly missed. Thoughts to his family & friends

[flash]

When the dust settles and the eulogising calms down, perhaps then we can consider the dichotomy of how being a decent guy reconciles with being the figurehead of a vile organisation for so many years? IN the meantime , R.I.P Walter.

The dictionary definition of damned with faint praise.

[Stokesy's on fire]

The Aberdeen forum is hideous in general. Probably the worst in Scottish football. Absolutely savage.


follow follow for me but the Aberdeen fans seem to be very bitter

[allmodcons]

Not up to me to dictate at all but I am entitled to give my opinion, as are you.

My opinion is that it's a bit of a reach to scatter gun issues of sectarianism alongside EBTs when discussing the life of a man who was by all accounts a great person and largely respected across Scottish football.

If you asked his family, I'd imagine that he was not a sectarian person at any level of his being, so yes, irrelevant.

Aye very good, I suspect their view wouldn't be in the least bit subjective :rolleyes:



There are many threads to discuss those points - this thread is about respecting the memory of a great scottish football contributor . Can we not focus on the humanity of it in here ..and leave the other topics to other threads ??

So says you.

The hypocrisy on display at times when someone passes away is hard to swallow.

As BH said, condolences to his family, but let's leave the OTT stuff to our sycophantic media.

[superfurryhibby]

I'm not sure David Murray is so universally recognized as a decent guy tbf.

Like you say, R.I.P Walter

No, Murray was the deluded owner who ended up taking that miserable club to insolvency.

Walter Smith was the figurehead at the club he managed during the cheating years at Rangers, but I'm sure you know that.

[flash]

Aye very good, I suspect their view wouldn't be in the least bit subjective :rolleyes:




So says you.

The hypocrisy on display at times when someone passes away is hard to swallow.

As BH said, condolences to his family, but let's leave the OTT stuff to our sycophantic media.

Have never even heard Celtic fans suggest he had sectarian views. Pretty sure he wouldn't have been carrying Tommy Burns coffin if he was.

[heretoday]

Sad news for his family, he seemed like a decent guy and his friendship with Tommy Burns should have been a catalyst for those two clubs to improve their off field issues.

BBC Radio Scotland might need to reign in its coverage though, its getting a bit mawkish this morning.

Too right. Are they still barred from Ibrox?

[lyonhibs]

No, Murray was the deluded owner who ended up taking that miserable club to insolvency.

Walter Smith was the figurehead at the club he managed during the cheating years at Rangers, but I'm sure you know that.

I would say, as far as the club as opposed to the team goes, Murray was the figurehead, not Smith.

[mcohibs]

The hypocrisy on display at times when someone passes away is hard to swallow.

As BH said, condolences to his family, but let's leave the OTT stuff to our sycophantic media.

What hypocrisy? What is it specifically about Walter Smith as a person that you didn't like? His attachment to a football club?

I depise rangers as much as the next man but by all accounts he was a good person and his influence on Scottish football was collosal.

Nothing OTT about paying due respects to someone who has passed away.

[A Hi-Bee]

What I would call a real football man, started with Dundee Hibernian and was a pretty good player as well, hard as. still young as well very sad for the family left behind. RIP.

[Keith_M]

Fourteen pages in the DR about Walter Smith today.


....Correction, twenty two pages

[allmodcons]

What hypocrisy? What is it specifically about Walter Smith as a person that you didn't like? His attachment to a football club?

I depise rangers as much as the next man but by all accounts he was a good person and his influence on Scottish football was colossal.

Nothing OTT about paying due respects to someone who has passed away.

I didn't know him as a person, so do not consider myself well enough acquaint with him to pass comment on him as an individual.

The bit in bold is just exactly what you say it isn't (i.e. - OTT).

[mcohibs]

I didn't know him as a person, so do not consider myself well enough acquaint with him to pass comment on him as an individual.

The bit in bold is just exactly what you say it isn't (i.e. - OTT).

Earlier in the thread you said you had 'little respect' for him.

You think his influence on Scottish football is overstated? 21 trophies at rangers, 7 titles in a row, took them to a UEFA cup final and lifted the Scotland national team 70 places in the world rankings after inheriting an absolutely dismal side from Berti Vogts.

I think I'll side with the comments of people like Alex Ferguson on that one.

[Smartie]

I didn't know him as a person, so do not consider myself well enough acquaint with him to pass comment on him as an individual.

The bit in bold is just exactly what you say it isn't (i.e. - OTT).

Is it though?

He had a playing career at a good level.

Jim McLean spotted his talent as a coach and had him help him out at United during some of their most successful ever times. They had some truly outstanding home grown players as well as others they bought relatively frugally - all of whom Smith will have had a role in developing. We're talking about some seriously good players here and anyone who had a role in helping United achieve what they did back then deserves acknowledgment.

Then you've got the trophies won at Rangers, both as assistant then manager in his own right, over 2 spells. We can argue about the chequebook nature of his success and the dodgy EBTs all day long but at the end of the day - that was an awful lot of silverware. There won't be many Scottish managers to have won more.

And he managed his country. An influential position.

I think it's fair enough to say you didn't like him if you didn't, even if it's a bit classless shortly after the man died. Fair points can be made at the appropriate time about "buying success" under Murray, and the validity of some of the later trophies during the EBT era.

Can the fact that he has been a hugely influential figure in Scottish football circles really be up for question though? I would argue not.

[Chorley Hibee]

As some others have said, I don't wish death upon anyone, and my condolences go out to his friends and family.

I've absolutely no time for the sycophantic pish from our MSM though - and how they whitewash everything related to either of the gruesome twosome.

Smith's 'achievements' should have a huge asterisk attached to them, and many would do well to remember they denied our own club prize money and potential trophies in the process.

I too don't think this has anything to do with Hibs, and as usual, because it's related to Rangers or Celtic, all of Scottish football is pretty much forced to show faux grief.

I've yet to witness Rangers and Celtic fans paying respect at their games to the countless Hibs/Scotland greats that have passed away over the years.

[Shrekko]

When people automatically have a dislike for somebody because they were connected with Rangers (and nothing else) it really puts you in the same bracket as the mindless element of the Rangers support. It’s prejudice as opposed to any kind of reasoning.

I’m guessing most people know Rangers fans they would class as friends so unless you have evidence that an individual is a sectarian bigot or whatever it makes no sense to say you have no time for them because they were employed by Rangers.

Walter Smith was a total gent who was actually a breath of fresh air after a few years of the sneering arrogance of Souness. It’s been said many times but he was always generous in defeat and had class that the current Rangers boss will never ever have.

[Hibby70]

Does beg the question as to where the line stands for giving a minute silence.

Who is left in Football where someone would get a silence at every game in the country.

Ferguson and Dalglish and our own Pat Stanton possibly. Who else? Edit : imagine Pele as well (off he takes too many of those blue pills)

[Golden Bear]

When people automatically have a dislike for somebody because they were connected with Rangers (and nothing else) it really puts you in the same bracket as the mindless element of the Rangers support. It’s prejudice as opposed to any kind of reasoning.

I’m guessing most people know Rangers fans they would class as friends so unless you have evidence that an individual is a sectarian bigot or whatever it makes no sense to say you have no time for them because they were employed by Rangers.

Walter Smith was a total gent who was actually a breath of fresh air after a few years of the sneering arrogance of Souness. It’s been said many times but he was always generous in defeat and had class that the current Rangers boss will never ever have.

:top marks

[Hibernia&Alba]

Does beg the question as to where the line stands for giving a minute silence.

Who is left in Football where someone would get a silence at every game in the country.

Ferguson and Dalglish and our own Pat Stanton possibly. Who else? Edit : imagine Pele as well (off he takes too many of those blue pills)

Denis Law?

[lyonhibs]

When people automatically have a dislike for somebody because they were connected with Rangers (and nothing else) it really puts you in the same bracket as the mindless element of the Rangers support. It’s prejudice as opposed to any kind of reasoning.

I’m guessing most people know Rangers fans they would class as friends so unless you have evidence that an individual is a sectarian bigot or whatever it makes no sense to say you have no time for them because they were employed by Rangers.

Walter Smith was a total gent who was actually a breath of fresh air after a few years of the sneering arrogance of Souness. It’s been said many times but he was always generous in defeat and had class that the current Rangers boss will never ever have.

In a nutshell as they say :agree::agree:

[Hibernia&Alba]

Have Aberdeen got tickets for Ibrox tonight? Unfortunate timing; some of their away fans will show themselves up during a silence.

[gbhibby]

The press will be all over it if the minutes silence at Easter Road is breached in any way.

[hibbysam]

The press will be all over it if the minutes silence at Easter Road is breached in any way.

And rightly so. Likewise the previous poster saying Aberdeen going to ibrox is ‘unfortunate timing’ - smith never done anything to Aberdeen as far as I can tell (someone can tell me otherwise) therefore you either show respect by staying silent, or stay away until it’s finished.

[Hibernia&Alba]

And rightly so. Likewise the previous poster saying Aberdeen going to ibrox is ‘unfortunate timing’ - smith never done anything to Aberdeen as far as I can tell (someone can tell me otherwise) therefore you either show respect by staying silent, or stay away until it’s finished.

It's unfortunate that the silence would be versus Aberdeen. The animosity between the two clubs is vicious, and there is a risk some of the Dons away support would ruin a minute's silence just to troll the Huns. The hardcore amongst every away support, especially after bevy on their travels, can be problematic. It only needs a couple of dozen in a silent stadium.

[hibbysam]

It's unfortunate that the silence would be versus Aberdeen. The animosity between the two clubs is vicious, and there is a risk some of the Dons away support would ruin a minute's silence just to troll the Huns. The hardcore amongst every away support, especially after bevy on their travels, can be problematic. It only needs a couple of dozen in a silent stadium.

Says more about those individuals than it does anything else.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Says more about those individuals than it does anything else.

Of course it does. Idiots at football matches are as old as the game itself.

[Sir David Gray]

Have Aberdeen got tickets for Ibrox tonight? Unfortunate timing; some of their away fans will show themselves up during a silence.

Yes they do, I think Rangers are back to providing the usual 900 or so away allocation.

[hibbysam]

Of course it does. Idiots at football matches are as old as the game itself.

Which is why I don’t view it as ‘unfortunate’ - they’re just ********s and would be ********s regardless.

[allmodcons]

When people automatically have a dislike for somebody because they were connected with Rangers (and nothing else) it really puts you in the same bracket as the mindless element of the Rangers support. It’s prejudice as opposed to any kind of reasoning.

I’m guessing most people know Rangers fans they would class as friends so unless you have evidence that an individual is a sectarian bigot or whatever it makes no sense to say you have no time for them because they were employed by Rangers.

Walter Smith was a total gent who was actually a breath of fresh air after a few years of the sneering arrogance of Souness. It’s been said many times but he was always generous in defeat and had class that the current Rangers boss will never ever have.

Just to clarify my opening post on this thread read:-

"I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club".

I have friends who are Rangers fans and, guess what, I call them out. Asked them what they do or how they feel when they are sitting in a stadium belting out 'No Pope of Rome' and all the crap that goes with it. Asked them how they can be a decent bloke and still have an affiliation with that horrible Club. It's not good enough just to accept it. If a Hibs fan was being racist during a game I hope I'd have the balls to call him/her out too.

What we seem to be forgetting is that The Rangers is basically an institution built on sectarianism and bigotry, so crack on and honour one their 'legends' but count me out if it's anything more than condolences to his family.

[Steve20]

Just to clarify my opening post on this thread read:-

"I didn't know the guy so can't say what kind of person he was or wasn't but, like you, have very little respect for anyone who's been at the helm of that horrible horrible Club".

I have friends who are Rangers fans and, guess what, I call them out. Asked them what they do or how they feel when they are sitting in a stadium belting out 'No Pope of Rome' and all the crap that goes with it. Asked them how they can be a decent bloke and still have an affiliation with that horrible Club. It's not good enough just to accept it. If a Hibs fan was being racist during a game I hope I'd have the balls to call him/her out too.

What we seem to be forgetting is that The Rangers is basically an institution built on sectarianism and bigotry, so crack on and honour one their 'legends' but count me out if it's anything more than condolences to his family.

You’re obviously someone that just assumes they’re all bigots and sectarian, but you’re just talking nonsense. I have family and friends who are Rangers fans and can assure you (not that I need to) they’re not sectarian at all. You’ve shown a lack of respect in this thread which is horrible.

Anyway, RIP to a good man Walter Smith.

[jeffers]

You’re obviously someone that just assumes they’re all bigots and sectarian, but you’re just talking nonsense. I have family and friends who are Rangers fans and can assure you (not that I need to) they’re not sectarian at all. You’ve shown a lack of respect in this thread which is horrible.

Anyway, RIP to a good man Walter Smith.

I don’t think all Rangers fans are bigots or sectarian. In fact I know a few and they certainly weren’t. However I can’t get my head round how any decent person can support Rangers, knowing what they are built on and sitting amongst a crowd where the majority are belting out sectarian bile.

[Irish_Steve]

Did anyone else find the current managers tribute over emotional? Almost as if SG was playing to the crowd. He may have got to know Walter Smith very well during his short stint as manager but the cynic in me thinks otherwise

[hibsbollah]

I always thought Smith was having a right go at Young, but listening to it again today and hearing what I have about Walter Smith, there is definitely humour in there as well. I don't think he was being completely serious but he still made his point.

I remember that clip being used on here as evidence that he was a nasty bullying piece of work. I think these things get seen ina more favourable light when someone passes. Personally I thought it was a bit unnecessary, Young is a tube but the bare aggression on show was a bit weird.

Obviously, RIP to a giant of the game.

[WhileTheChief..]

Rip.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Did anyone else find the current managers tribute over emotional? Almost as if SG was playing to the crowd. He may have got to know Walter Smith very well during his short stint as manager but the cynic in me thinks otherwise

Didn't see it, mate. It could just be that he'd gotten close to Walter Smith and is genuinely upset. We don't know.

[allmodcons]

You’re obviously someone that just assumes they’re all bigots and sectarian, but you’re just talking nonsense. I have family and friends who are Rangers fans and can assure you (not that I need to) they’re not sectarian at all. You’ve shown a lack of respect in this thread which is horrible.

Anyway, RIP to a good man Walter Smith.

You should read posts before responding.

Where did I say all Rangers supporters were sectarian? If you'd taken the time to read what I'd posted you'd have seen that I was asking decent Rangers fans to call out the bigots

Where have I been disrespectful?

[Scottie]

Good to hear almost everyone inside Easter Road tonight respecting the minutes silence richly deserved for Walter Smith. :aok:

[h1bs4life]

Good to hear almost everyone inside Easter Road tonight respecting the minutes silence richly deserved for Walter Smith. :aok:

Yup both sets of fans were very respectful, people have may have different views but it’s not difficult to sit or stand in silence for a minute

[BILLYHIBS]

Nice wee tribute from John Hughes tonight saying that when he lost the HIBS job Walter was the first on the phone

One of the good guys

RIP

[Perfect Hatrick]

Well observed minus a few wallopers who had envisaged bother and went ahead with shouting down the Celtic fans anyway. :confused:

[Hibernia&Alba]

I believe the Aberdeen fans at Ibrox observed the silence impeccably. That's great to hear; they exceeded my expectations actually, given the vitriol between the fans. :top marks

[jacomo]

Good to hear almost everyone inside Easter Road tonight respecting the minutes silence richly deserved for Walter Smith. :aok:


It was very good. Easy headline waiting to be written, Hibs and Celtc fans rose above it (a few roasters aside, but they can be easily ignored).

[heretoday]

I believe the Aberdeen fans at Ibrox observed the silence impeccably. That's great to hear; they exceeded my expectations actually, given the vitriol between the fans. :top marks

Of course. They'd not have escaped Ibrox alive otherwise.