The Directors, players and staff of Rangers said they were "saddened" to learn of the death of Billy McNeill as they paid tribute to the Celtic legend.
The former Parkhead captain passed away late yesterday evening surrounded by his family and friends following a prolonged battle with dementia.
A statement issued on the Rangers FC website described the legendary Parkhead captain as a "true leader both on and off the pitch, always showing outstanding respect and conducting himself with great dignity."
READ MORE: Celtic legend Billy McNeill dies aged 79
Former Rangers captain John Greig told the Ibrox club's website: "We were very good friends for many years and we had a great respect for each other both on and off the pitch.
"We were the captains of Rangers and Celtic in the past of course but, more recently, we received our honorary doctorates from Glasgow University on the same day which was a special occasion – so we had a lot in common.
The Directors, players and staff of Rangers Football Club are today saddened to learn of the death of Celtic legend Billy McNeill.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) April 23, 2019
Everyone at Rangers today sends their condolences to the family and friends of Mr McNeill.https://t.co/w9GGPsss3z pic.twitter.com/THIH0q1CXR
"As a player I remember Billy was like an extra forward because of his aerial ability at set-pieces. He was also a leader and a commanding and respected figure in the Lisbon Lions team of the Sixties.
"He was a great man and at this sad time my thoughts are with Liz and her family."
READ MORE: Tributes paid to Celtic legend Billy McNeill
Here is Rangers' statement in full:
The Directors, players and staff of Rangers Football Club are today saddened to learn of the death of Celtic legend Billy McNeill.
Mr McNeill passed away last night at the age of 79 having fought a brave battle with dementia in recent years.
He served Celtic Football Club as both captain and manager and was a true leader both on and off the pitch, always showing outstanding respect and conducting himself with great dignity.
Everyone at Rangers today sends their condolences to the family and friends of Mr McNeill.
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