THE Rangers fan who tragically died during his trip to Portugal this week has been named by friends and family.
Tributes have poured in for the life-long Rangers fan who passed away when following his team on the continent.
The Ibrox club announced the devastating news ahead of last night’s Europa League clash against Porto.
The supporter, James Scrimgeour, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the night ahead of the game at the Estadio do Dragao.
Thousands of Rangers fans travelled to Portugal to take in the Europa League showdown, despite it being a meaningless game for the Govan side.
But Scrimgeour passed away before the match took place.
A statement from Rangers at the time read: “Everyone at Rangers is extremely saddened to have learned of the passing of one of our supporters overnight in Porto from natural causes.
“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.”
Fellow Gers fan Tony Smeaton took to Facebook this morning to pay tribute.
He wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we would like to inform family & friends that James Scrimgeour, passed away peacefully in his sleep.
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“In Portugal last night ( Wednesday 28 January). He was in Portugal following his life long love of Glasgow Rangers FC. Unfortunately passing before he could watch them tonight. RIP Jim.”
More tributes were paid to the Ibrox supporter who was loved by fellow fans.
Laurence Hodge said: “My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Jim Scrimgeour who sadly passed away in Porto. Last met Jim about 13 years ago in Corby when he came down to watch a Rangers select at Corby Town FC.
“Along with Laurie Spence and Mick Jones and Dave Mclaren (senior). We all stayed at the team hotel and had a great night reminiscing about old times following the bears. Rest easy Jim”
Brother-in-law Stewart Kerr wrote: “Gone but never forgotten to a true blue and a gentleman WATP. James fly high with angels till we meet again from your sister Helen and Stewart.”
Another close friend said: “Aww I’m so sorry to hear this sad news Tony, my thoughts are with Helen, Stewart, you and Chloe, sending you much love and hugs.. ❤️🤍💙 xxxx”
Someone else said: “Aww, so sorry to hear about Jim, he was a great guy. Remember him from way back in the Lamplight.
RIP Jim Scrimgeour 💔”
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