Rangers legend Fernando Ricksen broke down in tears as he was welcomed on the pitch ahead of today's game at Ibrox.
The former Rangers star who suffers from motor neurone disease received a standing ovation as he appeared at the game against Hamilton Accies as a guest of honour.
Fans also arose during the 2nd minute of the game (Ricksen's shirt number) for an emotional minutes applause to honour the ex-player.
A banner which read 'no surrender Fernando Ricksen' was created by fans to pay tribute to the Dutchman.
Distraught football enthusiasts also took to social media to applaud the brave man and condemn the horrible disease.
Fantastic to see Fernando Ricksen returning home to Ibrox this afternoon. What a reception for the #Rangers legend. Keep fighting Fernando 💙💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/bNJfbMBrrp
— SNS Group (@snsgroup) November 18, 2017
Canny deal seeing photos of Fernando Ricksen, such a shame 😞
— jem🍹 (@jemmahopkinsss) November 18, 2017
Seeing Fernando Ricksen the way he is now is absolutely heart breaking. What an absolute legend and inspiration💙.
— Tami McLelland (@txmimcl) November 18, 2017
No other words required. pic.twitter.com/oxVRB95vID
— Neil Buchanan (@Neil_Buchanan) November 18, 2017
2' Everyone inside the stadium standing to clap and show their support for Fernando Ricksen who is at the game today.
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) November 18, 2017
Ricksen, who played almost 200 times for Rangers between 2000 and 2006, was diagnosed three years ago with amytrophic lateral sclerosis, the most common form of the illness.
As reported by the Evening Times, the Dutchman admitted earlier this month that his health is deteriorating rapidly and he has lost the ability to perform many basic functions. The terminal disease has also badly affected his speech.
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