Rangers fans have been paying tribute to former Celtic captain and manager Billy McNeill all day, who has sadly passed away at the age of 79.
McNeill’s status in the Scottish game is almost beyond compare after a huge career in football not just at our great rivals Celtic but also as manager of clubs such as Aberdeen, Manchester City and Aston Villa.
He won a mammoth 31 trophies at the Hoops as a captain or manager, with his ultimate triumph obviously coming in 1967 when he became the first British man to lift the European Cup.
A great friend of legendary Rangers captain John Greig, he’s always stood as a figure who transcends rivalry and that’s never been more evident than today, with fans of all clubs lining up to pay their own personal tributes to the legend.
Rangers fans have been part of that after the club posted a classy tribute earlier today, responding on Twitter to share their sadness at his passing…
RIP Billy McNeil. Led our rivals to their greatest success and, as far as I can remember, always conducted himself with class. From an era when respect and admiration could co-exist with fierce rivalry.
— Gav (@Broonser37) April 23, 2019
He’s up there with John Greig, 2 of the greatest captains our respected clubs have had. Giants of men who will never be surpassed again. I really wish I could have seen the battles of the 60s and 70s.
— sneddon (@sneddon04) April 23, 2019
RIP. Genuine legend in Scottish football. Despite being a foe was always respected and respectful. John Greig’s words say it all.
— JB (@theboyblair) April 23, 2019
This wasn’t just a Celtic player, he was a Scottish football icon, I’m the first to admit I let the rivalry/ hatred get the better of me sometimes but this man deserves every bit of respect, some forget he was also a great friend of John Greig.
— ????????angusRFC (@Rangersangus72) April 23, 2019
As a Gers fan I hope we have a dignified and respectful minutes silence for Billy McNeil at Ibrox on Sunday. The whole of Scottish football should recognise Billy McNeil’s achievements and the way he conducted himself.
— Jim (@Jim83085890) April 23, 2019
At the end of the day. When the players are off the pitch its not a football matter. If somebody from across the divide has their life taken from them due to illness or for ANY reason. Its important we honour the induvidual and respect them as a person. RIP ????????????????
— Mitchell Lindsay (@MitchellMDL7) April 23, 2019
What a great man. Had the pleasure of his company at a few events over the years & he was a great guy. A sad day for Scottish football. RIP Billy
— Craig Chalmers (@Chick_Chalmers) April 23, 2019
Rest in peace Billy McNeill. Condolences to the family. Be proud in what he achieved. We should never forget our rivalry but we should always remember respect.
— John McCormick (@MonkeyLuvver) April 23, 2019