GIOVANNI van Bronckhorst has revealed the day of Jimmy Bell's passing was his most difficult period as Rangers manager.

The Ibrox club were preparing for a Europa League semi-final second-leg against RB Leipzig when news of the legendary kitman's death was announced.

Van Bronckhorst recalled the tough period for Ibrox players, management and staff with everyone connected with the club left "devastated".

The Dutchman had worked with Bell during his time as a player before reuniting with the kitman as he returned to Ibrox as manager last year.

But Van Bronckhorst and his squad were plunged into a period of mourning when Bell passed away on May 3, 2022.

Scottish football united in grief over Bell's passing and Van Bronckhorst revealed "everything changed" at Ibrox from positive spirits to despair at the news.

However, Rangers would go on to win against RB Leipzig to make the Europa League final - then losing in a shootout to Eintracht Frankfurt in Seville in the showpiece final.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Van Bronckhorst said: "My most difficult day was two days before Leipzig at home.

"When you get the call at 6 o'clock when Jimmy died and then you have to come here (Ibrox) instead of preparing the team for one of the biggest games in history.

"We had a day when we were in mourning. Everyone was so devastated by the news because you could see everyone coming in quite positive and vibrant because of the game. 

"And then in a split second you see people like boom - everything changed.

"It was the same for everyone so that's by far the most difficult moment I had as a coach and also as the manager here."

On Bell's passing, Rangers chairman Douglas Park had at the time commented: “As a club, we are absolutely devastated to learn of the loss of our colleague and more importantly, our dear friend, Jimmy Bell.

“Jimmy dedicated his life to Rangers Football Club. Having worked under managers from Graeme Souness through to Giovanni, he experienced some of the greatest days in our 150-year history. Of course, he was here during some of the lowest points, and showed selfless dedication, regardless of the challenge ahead of him.

“Jimmy’s work ethic was second to none. He dedicated countless hours to preparation for each training session and game. No job was too big or too small for him, and he thrived on working for his boyhood club.

“I spoke with Jimmy regularly, having known him from his time as a mechanic and bus driver at Park’s. He was excited for Thursday night’s game at Ibrox, particularly having experienced a European semi-final before under Walter Smith.

“Rangers, and Scottish football as a whole, have lost a legend and a friend today. He was a family man, a devoted father, grandfather and husband. Jimmy will be sorely missed and I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Bell family at this difficult time on behalf of Rangers Football Club.”

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