Today’s back pages: Rangers bid farewell to ‘warrior’ Fernando Ricksen

Fernando Ricksen 1976-2019

Newspapers in Scotland pay tribute to former Rangers Football Club captain Fernando Ricksen on their front pages today.

The Dutchman, who was 43, died yesterday after a six-year battle with motor neurone disease.

The Herald’s headline calls Ricksen “a true warrior” while the Daily Record says the Rangers legend was “a father, footballer and fighter to the end”.

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In a statement Rangers managing director Stewart Robertson said: “Everyone connected with Rangers will be distressed by Fernando’s passing. He fought so bravely against a terrible illness and our thoughts are with his family.

“Fernando will never be forgotten by his team-mates or Rangers fans. His place in our history is secured.”

‘Weak tragedy’ for Spurs

The English newspapers focus on the Champions League exploits of Premier League teams Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.

“It’s a weak tragedy” for Spurs, says the Daily Express, as Mauricio Pochettino’s men let a two-goal lead slip against Greek side Olympiakos in group B.

In group C Premier League champions Man City fared better, beating Shakhtar Donetsk 3-0.