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Gerrard and Davis pay tribute to legend in the background of title triumph

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Other than a few guest appearances on Rangers TV for matchday duties this season, a massive influence on the current Ibrox dressing room has very much been in the background, in keeping with his persona.

He is a man who has been there and done it, a man that other managers look up to, a man who commands respect from players who served under him. 

That man is Rangers legend, Walter Smith. 

In recent days, both Steven Gerrard and Steven Davis referenced the two time Ibrox boss.

The current gaffer paid tribute to the Rangers great, revealing how he has been there for him in recent times:

“Walter is someone I have the utmost respect for. He is an iconic figure at this club, a successful manager.”

“It is an unofficial mentorship, if you like – I don’t even think Walter knows he is doing it.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of his company around lockdown, it’s been more difficult during lockdown.”

“But he is someone I have spoken to a lot on the phone. He has a real connection with the League Managers’ Association and has been a big help to me.”

“I bounce a lot of stuff off him and he always has plenty of time for me and my coaches.

“I don’t even think he knows he is being a mentor but he has been fantastic for me.”

Current dressing room leader Davis was asked about comparisons between his former and current manager at the press conference ahead of the St. Mirren game, but he struck the right tone:

“I don’t like to compare one manager to the next as each has their own personality,”

“They deal with situations in the way they see fit,” said the Northern Ireland captain.

“The gaffer (Gerrard) has his own traits and he has done a fantastic job since he came in.”

“It was a massive first job for him to step into but for him to have Walter there and to tap (his knowledge) into is a great thing for him.”

“There’s been a lot of hurt over the past 10 years and it’s been a long road to try and get it back to where it should be.”

“Even as a group, we’ve had a lot of criticism over the past couple of seasons when we’ve fallen away.”

“So it’s going to be a very special moment when we do get over the line and it’s one that the fans will be delighted with.”

“Of course there’s something missing in terms of them not being able to be in the stadium to witness it this year but I’m sure everyone will be delighted and will celebrate accordingly whenever it comes.”

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