Rangers chairman John Bennett paid tribute to the 'kind, thoughtful and generous' character of Walter Smith as the club unveiled a statue in his honour at Ibrox.

Smith managed the club to 10 league titles across two spells as manager and is widely regarded as the greatest figure in its modern history.

Before his family were invited by Bennet to uncover the statue as hundreds of fans watched on, the Govan club's chairman spoke eloquently about what Smith brought to Scottish football.

Bennett said: "On behalf of Rangers football club I'm deeply honoured to be asked to say a few words on the unveiling of this terrific statue of the great Walter Smith.

"Walter wasn't just the greatest manager of the modern era, he was the finest of human beings. He was a man of supremely strong character and was also kind, thoughtful and generous.

"He strived for and he produced the very best for Rangers on and off the pitch. That mantra by which he lived is one we must all uphold today, tomorrow and in the years ahead.

"The unveiling of the statue is the culmination of years of work by a small team within the club. They have worked closely with the Smith family on every exacting detail while liaising with award-winning sculptor Douglas Jennings. Our heartfelt thanks go out to each and every one of them.

"The Walter Smith statue is a wonderful addition to the Ibrox campus. Now every visitor, supporter or otherwise will have the opportunity to remember one of the true greats of our club."