RANGERS have announced a statue of Walter Smith has been commissioned to commemorate his achievements at the club.

Ibrox chiefs have authorised a statue to be built outside the stadium and revealed the plans on the first anniversary of the former manager's passing.

The Rangers legend lived in Helensburgh for many years before his death.

His funeral was organised by local firm James Auld Funeral Directors.

Scottish football united in mourning one year ago when it was confirmed Mr Smith had passed away on October 26 aged 73.

READ MORE: Walter Smith: James Auld Funeral Directors praised after service

Now, Rangers will pay tribute to the club legend with a statue to be constructed outside the Copland end at Ibrox.

A statement on the club website confirmed: "On the first anniversary of his passing, Rangers Football Club are today pleased to announce a statue of legendary manager Walter Smith has been commissioned to commemorate his incredible achievements at the club.

"In the modern era, nobody contributed more to Rangers than Walter. He served as assistant manager, manager, and chairman, with his spells as manager yielding an incredible 10 top-flight titles, five Scottish Cups and six League Cups.

"A boyhood supporter who more than lived the dream, future generations will be met with this new sculpture at the famed Copland Road end of Ibrox Stadium."

A former Dundee United and Dumbarton defender, Mr Smith was appointed manager at Ibrox in 1991, succeeding Graeme Souness.

READ MORE: Walter Smith: Ardencaple chairman pays tribute to 'truly great man'

He won 13 major trophies in seven years, including seven league titles in succession, before leaving at the end of the 1997/98 season and subsequently joining Everton.

He stayed at Goodison Park for four seasons before a brief stint as assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

He was appointed Scotland manager in December 2004 and was in charge for three years before returning to Rangers, where he won a further eight trophies before retiring in 2011 after completing another domestic double.

He was also honorary president of Helensburgh-based youth football club Ardencaple FC and was a regular attendee at the club's prize-giving ceremonies.