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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Van Bronckhorst in Rangers 'make Jimmy proud' call as Tavernier recalls first interaction with kit man

Van Bronckhorst in Rangers 'make Jimmy proud' call as Tavernier recalls first interaction with kit man

GIOVANNI van Bronckhorst insists Rangers are even more determined to provide a performance against RB Leipzig after Jimmy Bell passed away yesterday.

The legendary kit man's death was confirmed by the Ibrox club yesterday prompting an outpouring of love and tributes across Scottish football.

And Van Bronckhorst has stated his players continue to mourn Bell's late passing but will be ready to "make Jimmy proud" in the Europa League semi-final second-leg.

Van Bronckhorst said: "Yesterday, we were all very shocked about the news of Jimmy.

"It was a hard day for all of us. We are still in shock, we talked about him & shared our personal stories about Jimmy.

"It was a really big game already, but we are even more determined now to make Jimmy proud.

"We still mourn and are down but the character, belief and determination of my players are there and we will do everything to reach the final. We will be ready."

Rangers captain James Tavernier also paid tribute to Bell as he recalled an early interaction with the club hero.

The skipper explained Bell ""gave him stick" after he asked for the number two when he moved to the club.

Tavernier said: "It is obviously a devasting time for the club and everyone that knew Jimmy. It was really difficult to take.

"I know Jimmy wouldn't want the fuss, he would want us to roll our socks up and get stuck in.

"Everyone will be ready to go from the first whistle. To do it for the club, for the fans and for Jimmy.

"I loved Jimmy to bits, he was one of the first people I met at the club. I asked him for the number two and he gave me stick for asking him."

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