Details Emerge About Rangers Fan Who Died in Porto Before Europa League Clash

Details Emerge About Rangers Fan Who Died in Porto Before Europa League Clash

Details have now emerged about the Rangers fan who tragically died in Porto, after the club released a statement on Thursday night. The Gers crashed out of the Europa League and, with nothing but pride to play for in the final matchweek, fell to a 3-1 defeat against the Portuguese giants, finishing 32nd out of 36 clubs in the initial league phase.

In the end, it proved to be a nondescript night for Danny Rohl’s side, while events off the pitch proved far more significant, as tributes poured in for James Scrimgeour, who had passed away peacefully in his sleep the night before (Wednesday, 28 January). Initially described only as “a lovely gentleman who loved his team,” he has since been named.

Supporters have been left devastated by the news, and tributes quickly flooded in from across the footballing world. He had travelled to Portugal to see his team play but passed away due to natural causes, according to talkSPORT.

Rangers Release Statement Following Fan’s Death

General view of Ibrox StadiumGeneral view of Ibrox StadiumRangers announced the news prior to their final Europa League game away in Portugal on Thursday night. The club’s bosses said they were “extremely saddened” to learn of the news.

A statement read (see below): “Everyone at Rangers is extremely saddened to have learned of the passing of one of our supporters overnight in Porto from natural causes.”It continued: “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time, and we are liaising with both the Portuguese and British authorities.”

Tributes Pour in For James ScrimgeourGeneral view of IbroxIn a post on Facebook, Tony Smeaton, a close friend of James, wrote in tribute (see the full post below): “It is with deep sadness that we would like to inform family and friends that James Scrimgeour passed away peacefully in his sleep in Portugal last night.”He was in Portugal following his life-long love of Glasgow Rangers FC. Unfortunately, passing before he could watch them tonight. RIP Jim.”

As per the Daily Star, another Gers’ fan wrote: “Gutted he never saw us lift the trophy one last time. A lovely gentle man, who loved his team. will be sorely missed from our club, and as our friend. Rest east big fella. Forever red, white and blue.” Elsewhere, a third added: “Up in heaven, with the angels – you’ll be singing follow follow for the Rangers that you loved.”