Fernando Ricksen has died at the age of just 43 following a long battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). 

Rangers confirmed that the fan favourite had passed away this morning. 

READ MORE: Tributes pour in for ex-Rangers star Fernando Ricksen as he passes away, aged 43 

Rangers posted on social media: "Rangers is deeply saddened to announce that former player Fernando Ricksen passed away this morning following his battle with motor neurone disease." 

Zenit St Petersburg wrote online: "We're deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former player Fernando Ricksen.  

READ MORE: Rangers legend Fernando Ricksen dies aged 43 

"He battled bravely against motor neurone disease right until the end and we are all thinking of him and his family at this difficult time."

The SPFL added: "Everyone at the SPFL is deeply saddened to learn that former Rangers player Fernando Ricksen has passed away after his battle with motor neurone disease.

"Our thoughts are with his family."