Walter Smith backs Aberdeen's Derek McInnes for Rangers vacancy

Walter Smith wants to see Derek McInnes take over at Rangers. Picture: SNS/Steve Welsh

Speaking on Sky Sports prior to Rangers 6-0 William Hill Scottish Cup quarter-final defeat to Hamilton Academical, the former Rangers boss spoke of his admiration for McInnes.

Smith, who led the Ibrox side to 10 league titles over two spells as manager, managed McInnes at Rangers. He praised the stability the 45-year-old has brought to Aberdeen.

“I’d like someone that was going to bring a level of success to the club,” he said.

Derek McInnes has been touted for the Rangers vacancy. Picture: John Devlin

“I would like to see Derek take the opportunity to do that. I had him as a player, as a manager he has done a good job wherever he is.

“He went down to Bristol and had some problems, has come back to Aberdeen, four years there, and brought stability to the club.

“He’s adapted to what he’s got and I don’t think Rangers would go far wrong in attempting to get Derek.”

McInnes has been reluctant to talk about the link to his former club. His side currently lead Rangers by six points in the league and face Partick Thistle tomorrow for a place in the Scottish Cup last four.