With the marking of Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s first anniversary as Rangers manager, the Dutchman respectfully reflected on a very poignant moment in tribute to his late friend and colleague, Jimmy Bell.
The iconic figure, a Rangers legend of his own merit, passed away suddenly just a matter of hours ahead of the Europa League semi-final second leg, earlier this year in May.
In conversation with Sky Sports, Gio was asked about what was the most difficult moment of his year in charge of the club:
“My most difficult day was two days before Leipzig at home when we got the call at 6 o’clock to say Jimmy (Bell) had died. We had to come here and instead of preparing the team for one of the biggest games in the club’s history, we had a day when we were in mourning and everyone was so devastated at the news.”
“You could see everyone coming in with positive energy and vibrant because of the game and what was going to happen then you could see in a split second, boom, everything changed. Everyone felt the same. That’s by far the most difficult moment I’ve had as a coach, and as the manager here.”
π Being appointed
π£οΈ Most difficult day so far
π Europa League & Scottish Cup
π Champions League impact
π Transfers & contract talksIn an ππππ‘πͺπ¨ππ«π interview, before the World Cup break, Giovanni van Bronckhorst opens up on his first year as Rangers boss & more β¬οΈ pic.twitter.com/b7HInd3wmy
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) November 18, 2022
The response to the question came immediately, it was heartfelt and sincere giving some welcome perspective in terms of the recognised problems at the club just now. Quite simply, some things matter more with that sentiment echoed in the manager’s reflections on that fateful day.
It is to his credit, as well as the players, that they were collectively able to channel the significant emotion and energy following the passing of such a significant figure for a momentous game, a huge occasion. The end outcome was powerful, incredible and fantastic as Rangers sealed a place in the Seville final – nobody present at Ibrox that night will ever forget the atmosphere and those scenes after the game.
That also resonates with the name and contribution of Jimmy Bell at Rangers.
The popular figure would have celebrated his landmark 70th birthday on Monday, earlier this week, but regardless his impact and legacy will live on through the stories and glories of our past that he witnessed first hand, in his supporting role to the team and staff.
Always Remembered.
π€Remembering Legendary Kitman Jimmy Bell, born 70yrs ago today in 1952. Over 30yrs at Ibrox he saw the highs of #9IAR to the lows of the 3rd division and back again as we completed the Journey back to the top with 55. He dedicated his life to #Rangers, he lived the dream. #GBNF pic.twitter.com/3LZI42GtUA
— ππ ππ«π ππ‘π πππ¨π©π₯π (@WATP72RFC) November 14, 2022