Derek McInnes has opened up on his memories of Walter Smith, five years after the Rangers legend passed away, describing a relationship that grew stronger once he moved into management. The current Rangers boss divided his recollections of Smith into two parts: the manager and the mentor.
McInnes, who made his dream move to Ibrox in November 1995, recalled how a single conversation with Smith assured him he belonged at the club despite the fierce competition for places in midfield. He admitted that his relationship with Smith during his playing days was not overly close, but it blossomed after he became a manager himself.
A Relationship That Grew Stronger
McInnes said that Smith's eagerness to help and involve himself in his career was pleasing, whether through invitations to watch training or phone calls. He remembered the day Smith signed him, revealing that Rangers had watched every Morton game that season and had wanted to sign him from the very first one, but held off due to the abundance of midfielders at the time.
“Every member of staff, every report we've had done say you're ready to play,” Smith told McInnes on his first day, adding, “You'll do well here. Just be yourself.” McInnes admitted he felt confident but knew how difficult it would be to break into a team packed with internationals, particularly in midfield.
Smith's Adaptability and Legacy
Across two spells at Ibrox, Smith delivered 22 major trophy wins, nine-in-a-row, and led Rangers to the UEFA Cup final in Manchester in 2008. McInnes believes Smith could manage in any era, citing his adaptability and focus on winning over statistics.
“He dealt with people and players brilliantly. Like a dad really, chastising you and coming down on you when you needed it, putting his arm around you, and knowing when to encourage you and get behind you,” McInnes said. He added that Smith was big on togetherness and simplifying the game, with a knowledge of football that was second to none.
A Final Lesson in Honesty
Smith remained in contact with McInnes until days before his death from cancer, offering one last piece of advice. McInnes recalled a conversation about Scottish managers needing to portray confidence, a lesson he said he would always remember.
McInnes also shared a poignant memory from the 1995 League Cup Final against Hearts, where he was left out of the matchday squad despite playing in every round. Smith called him into his office the next day, handed him a medal and a full bonus, and explained his loyalty to David Robertson. “One day, if you sit this side of the desk, you'll understand that,” Smith told him.
McInnes said he learned that managers must be brutally honest with players, as they can smell insincerity. He noted that Smith didn't need to explain himself after the final, but he felt it was important enough to do so.
