FORMER Ibrox heroes Steven Smith and Kevin Thomson have joined forces with the Rangers Youth Development Company to provide coaching sessions to supporters.

Rangers have announced a partnership that will see Smith and Thomson join staff on the Soccer Schools programmes at the Ibrox Complex and at venues around Scotland.

Both former Gers stars have started their own Academies since hanging up their boots and Thomson is part of the Under-18 staff at the Hummel Training Centre.

RYDC Director of Operations Colin Stewart said: “The Rangers Youth Development Company is delighted to enter into this partnership with Rangers Soccer Schools, Kevin Thomson and Steven Smith.

Glasgow Times:

“I know Gary Gibson and the team at Rangers Soccer Schools deliver top-class coaching sessions to children of all ages around the country and we are delighted to work closely with them on this initiative.

“Kevin and Steven enjoyed terrific football careers with Rangers and other top clubs and are now passing on their extensive experiences to kids of all ages. While Kevin, of course, is a key member of the Rangers Academy coaching set up.

Glasgow Times:

“As the main sponsor of our youth academy, RYDC is passionate about supporting youth football and we have donated more than £8 million to the Rangers Academy since 2002 and £825,000 in the last three years – all thanks to the generosity of Rangers fans who participate in our growing list of products.

“This new association with Rangers Soccer Schools, Kevin and Steven will see them deliver coaching sessions to some of RYDC’s supporters and their children. Rangers fans, who have gone above and beyond for RYDC.

“Rangers supporters have always given RYDC unbelievable backing and we can now reward them with the chance to experience top-level coaching courtesy of Rangers Soccer Schools and two model ex professionals.”