The term Rangers legend is thrown about a lot. The club is, after all, the most successful in World Football.
Trophies, celebrations, great goals, legendary players. It is what this club is all about. It’s what it’s always been about.
But many fans have grumbled recently about the overuse of that word. Legend. Many feel it is too easily attributed by supporters and the press.
At a hugely successful club, legend status seems to demand a much higher standard.
And why shouldn’t it?
For other clubs, a derby goal or a cup win can be enough to etch themselves into the upper echelons of a club’s historical lexicon.
But at Rangers, it’s quite different. You need to have shown utter, unabating commitment to the cause. A drive and willingness to put the club before yourself that while widely admired is scarcely truly shown.
It can take a lifetime to become a Rangers Legend
Some – such as the rousing Bill Struth or the steely Walter Smith – never actually kicked a ball for the club.
Others, such as Mr. Rangers himself John Greig, are a part of Ibrox at almost every foundation, playing, managing and directing.
Over the years there have been plenty of others on the pitch too. But only in my mid-20s, I won’t begin to lay claim to who and who doesn’t merit such an accolade from before my time to during it.
What I do know is that legends aren’t built into our club overnight. It can often take some close to a lifetime.
Commitment, desire, ability, passion and above all else, a willingness to fight and die for the badge. These are the traits of a true Rangers legend.
Whilst many of our players attain cult status; international stars who become infatuated with their surroundings; one day derby heroes who steal the show late on; ageing veterans who experience a twilight renaissance on the marble staircase; few really pierce that ceiling.
Standards – which we’ve lacked in recent years – are also the hallmark of the club.
Fewer may be “legends” than are given credit, but there are icons, heroes and huge successes aplenty.
And they too, as supporters themselves, understand precisely why not everyone achieves this accolade.
Legend is a word reserved for only the greatest of Rangers.