Rangers have announced that they will pay a ‘lasting tribute’ to the late Sandy Jardine by re-naming the Govan Stand in his honour.
The Govan Stand will be renamed the Sandy Jardine Stand in time for the opening league game of the season against one of the full back’s former clubs, Hearts, at Ibrox on the 10th August.
A statement on the official Rangers website, read: “The Light Blues legend sadly lost his battle with cancer in April but is forever in our thoughts and the Club will mark his phenomenal 50-year contribution to Rangers by changing the name of the Govan Stand to the Sandy Jardine Stand.
“Sandy was based in the offices at the Govan Stand for many years when he returned to the Club he served with such distinction as a player so it is fitting this particular stand will carry his name.
“This dedication will be in place for the opening league game of the season against Sandy’s former side Hearts at Ibrox on Sunday 10 August. His family will also be guests of the Club on the day and Sandy’s widow Shona says the honour is something he was immensely proud of.”
Rangers Chief Executive Graham Wallace commented: “Sandy Jardine epitomised everything that is good about Rangers Football Club. He was a man of principle and class and his contribution throughout his career both on and off the pitch was truly incredible.
“His achievements are unlikely to be seen again in the modern game and this is a truly fitting way to honour Sandy’s memory. The re-naming of the Govan Stand will be a permanent tribute to a man who gave everything for Rangers.
“He was a credit to Rangers for decades and his dignity, class and love for the Club shone through. We have lost a true gentleman but he will never be forgotten and everyone at the Club is immensely proud to re-name the stand in his honour.”
Jardine made nearly 800 appearances for Rangers scoring 77 goals in the process, he won three League titles, five Scottish Cups, five League Cups and was an integral part of the Rangers side that won the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1972.
He is regarded as one of the greatest Rangers players of all time, as well as one of the greatest Scots. During his international career Jardine won 38 caps and featured in two World Cup competitions.
Rangers Manager Ally McCoist commented: “There have been many great names associated with Rangers Football Club but I can think of no-one more deserving of this tribute than Sandy Jardine. A Rangers legend in every sense of the word, he will always be in our hearts and I am delighted he will be remembered forever with this permanent tribute at Ibrox Stadium.
“Sandy’s achievements both on and off the pitch were second to none. He gave everything for this great club and we are all looking forward to paying tribute to him at the Hearts game next month.”
