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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Liam Bryce

Jimmy Bell remembered by Rangers boss Gio van Bronckhorst and skipper James Tavernier as Sakala shares 'last goal' tribute

Devastated Giovanni van Bronckhorst has led tributes from the Rangers dressing room to the late Jimmy Bell.

The Ibrox club are mourning their legendary kit man, who provided over 30 years of service, after his sudden passing aged 69 was announced on Tuesday morning.

Van Bronckhorst worked with Bell both as a player and manager and revealed his heartbreak at losing a colleague "who epitomised everything this great club stands for".

The Dutchman shared a poignant post on his official Instagram page and sent his condolences to the Bell family.

Van Bronckhorst wrote: " I am devastated to learn of the sad passing of my friend and colleague, Jimmy Bell.

"I had a special relationship, I loved being around him, both as a player and subsequently as Manager.

"He was a hard working, dedicated and selfless Ranger, who epitomised everything this great club stands for. He will be sorely missed by everyone at Rangers.

"I send my thoughts and prayers to the Bell family at this difficult time."

Fashion Sakala 's equaliser at Celtic Park proved to be the final Rangers goal scored with Bell in the dugout - a fact not lost on the forward.

He, too, took to social media to mark the passing of one of the club's best-loved figures.

Sakala wrote on Twitter: " GOD BLESS

"REST IN PEACE JIMMY

"FOREVER IN MY HEART

"To score the last Rangers goal before you passed away makes that even more special. I am so sorry you’re gone

"FS10 LEGEND DON’T DIE

"Read:Matthew 5:4

"FOREVER BEST FRIENDS"

Rangers captain James Tavernier also took to social media to share a touching message.

James Tavernier took to social media to share a tribute to the late Jimmy Bell. (Instagram/James Tavernier)

The skipper wrote: "Although he was officially a "Kitman", he was much more than that.

"Few people are synonymous with a football club in the modern day era.

"He was at Ibrox for longer than I have been alive. The beating heart and soul of our club, the hardest worker, the most dedicated.

"He was Rangers through and through.

"He will always be remembered. He will always be with us. We will never forget him!.

"I'm truly going to mis you! Rest In Peace my friend."

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