IBROX has fallen silent in memory of the legendary Walter Smith.

Ahead of tonight's match between Rangers and Aberdeen a minute's silence took place and it was observed by both sets of fans.

Smith passed away yesterday at the age of 73.

The news was announced by Rangers, for whom 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

Smith had been suffering from a long illness but still had a major influence on current Rangers manager Steven Gerrard, who fought back tears as he declared his mentor had “made me a better person”.

Another of Smith’s proteges, Ally McCoist, described his pain for Smith’s family.

“At this moment in time, all I can think about is (wife) Ethel, (sons) Neil and Steven and his grandkids,” the former Rangers striker, assistant manager and manager told talkSPORT.

“All Walter would have wanted was another few years to watch those grandkids play football and spend a lot of time with Jessica and them all, and sadly that’s the most painful thing for me right now.

“I could sit here and tell you about Walter Smith until the cows come home, about how good a manager, how good a coach, how good a football man he was.

“But I think I can safely say he was the best husband, the best father, the best friend – everything you’d expect in a man.”