Rangers, one of the most storied clubs in world football, boast a rich history of legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on Ibrox. From record appearance makers to prolific goalscorers and trophy-laden heroes, these players are revered by the Light Blues faithful. With Rangers having competed across all tiers of Scottish football, including a remarkable journey through the lower divisions in the 2010s, a diverse array of talents have donned the royal blue, earning enduring adoration from fans.
Below is a tribute to some of Rangers’ most iconic players, who are celebrated for their contributions in appearances, goals and trophies, reflecting Rangers’ unique legacy.
John Greig
- Appearances: 755
- Goals: 120
- Years at Rangers: 1961-1978, 1978-1983 (as manager)
- Trophies: European Cup Winners’ Cup 1972, Scottish Premier Division (5), Scottish Cup (6 as player, 2 as manager), Scottish League Cup (4 as player, 2 as manager)
Known as “The Greatest Ever Ranger,” as he was voted that by the Gers supporters back in 1999, John Greig is the epitome of loyalty and leadership at Rangers. A versatile midfielder and defender, Greig holds the club’s all-time appearance record with 755 matches over 17 years, a feat unlikely to be surpassed.
His 120 goals, remarkable for a non-forward, include memorable strikes in domestic and European competitions and that has earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
As captain, he lifted the 1972 European Cup Winners’ Cup, leading Rangers to a 3-2 victory over Dynamo Moscow in Barcelona, the club’s only European trophy to date. Greig’s five Scottish Premier Division titles, eight Scottish Cups, and six League Cups, including three domestic trebles, cement his legacy.
A statue outside Ibrox immortalises his contribution and fans still celebrate his MBE for services to football.
Ally McCoist
- Appearances: 581
- Goals: 355
- Years at Rangers: 1983-1998, 2011-2014 (as manager)
- Trophies: Scottish Premier Division (10), Scottish Cup (1), Scottish League Cup (9), Scottish League One 2014 (as manager), Scottish League Two 2013 (as manager)
Ally McCoist, aka “Super Ally”, is Rangers’ all-time leading goalscorer, with an astonishing 355 goals in 581 appearances. A lethal striker, McCoist’s 15-year spell at Ibrox saw him become a fan favourite for his knack for scoring in crucial moments, including a record 54 goals in the Scottish League Cup.
McCoist was a big-game player, his goals defining an era of dominance. His 251 league goals and two European Golden Boots (1992, 1993) highlight his prowess, making him the first Scot to achieve the latter. McCoist was instrumental in Rangers’ nine consecutive league titles from 1988 to 1997, contributing to 10 championships and nine League Cups.
His infectious passion and later role as manager (2011-2014) endeared him further to the Ibrox faithful.
Sandy Jardine
- Appearances: 674
- Goals: 77
- Years at Rangers: 1964-1982
- Trophies: European Cup Winners’ Cup 1972, Scottish Premier Division (3), Scottish Cup (5), Scottish League Cup (5)
Sandy Jardine, a classy right-back, is Rangers’ third-highest appearance maker with 674 games and 77 goals, a remarkable tally for a defender.
A key figure in the 1972 European Cup Winners’ Cup triumph, Jardine’s versatility saw him deployed as a centre-forward at times, showcasing his adaptability. His five Scottish Cups, three league titles and five League Cups include the 1970 League Cup, his first major honour.
Jardine’s elegance on the ball and defensive solidity earned him a place in Rangers’ Hall of Fame. His passing in 2014 was mourned deeply, but his legacy endures.
Davie Cooper
- Appearances: 540
- Goals: 75
- Years at Rangers: 1977-1989
- Trophies: Scottish Premier Division (3), Scottish Cup (3), Scottish League Cup (7)
Davie Cooper, the “wing wizard,” was one of Rangers’ most gifted players, renowned for his dazzling skill and pinpoint crossing.
His 540 appearances and 75 goals include what many consider the greatest goal in Rangers’ history, a stunning strike against Celtic in the 1979 Dryburgh Cup Final. Cooper’s flair earned praise from Ruud Gullit, who named him in his Greatest XI.
A key part of Rangers’ success in the late 1970s and 1980s, Cooper won three league titles, three Scottish Cups, and seven League Cups. His electric performance in the 1996 Scottish Cup Final underscores his clutch ability.
Cooper’s moments of brilliance made him a fan favourite, with his talent transcending statistics.
Andy Goram
- Appearances: 260
- Goals: 0
- Years at Rangers: 1991-1998
- Trophies: Scottish Premier Division (5), Scottish Cup (3), Scottish League Cup (2)
Nicknamed “The Goalie,” Andy Goram is widely regarded as Rangers’ greatest-ever goalkeeper, voted as such by fans in 2001. His 260 appearances included vital saves during Rangers’ nine-in-a-row league titles from 1988 to 1997, with Goram contributing to five of those, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups.
His agility and reflexes shone in high-stakes matches, notably in European campaigns. Goram’s 43 Scotland caps, including appearances at Euro 1992 and 1996, add to his legend.
A multi-sport athlete who played league cricket, Goram’s charisma and clutch performances defined his identity.