Rangers legend Nacho Novo has announced the tragic death of his stepson at the age of 26.

The Spaniard, who now manages Scottish seventh tier outfit Darvel FC, shared the news stepson Ross’s untimely passing in a heart-breaking Instagram post.

Nacho Novo pays tribute to late stepson Ross
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Novo shared moving images of his time with his late stepsonCredit: Instagram @nnovo10

The 47-year-old wrote: "Nothing in my life could’ve prepared me for this post. We are absolutely broken to share the sad news that our beautiful boy has tragically passed away.

"Please respect our family's privacy during this extremely difficult time. Forever in our hearts my boy".

Ross's younger brother posted his own tribute on Tiktok, writing: "U were the best ever.

He continued: "Rest in peace to my big brother. Going to miss you so much. Hope you're okay and safe up there. 

“Thanks for always looking after me. I love you so so much, I can't believe it's true. You were the best brother ever. Forever 26."

A statement from Darvel FC read: “The Club’s thoughts are with Nacho and his family at this sad time and we ask that everyone respects the families’ privacy during this extremely difficult time.”

Tributes pour in

Further tributes quickly poured in from fans, media personalities and ex-teammates.

Presenter Laura Woods wrote: "I'm so sorry for your loss Nacho, rest in peace your beautiful boy."

Wrestling star Grado replied: "So sorry to hear this Nacho - absolutely heart breaking. My thoughts are with you and your family."

Ex-Rangers teammate Michael Mols also commented writing: “Unbelievable Nacho. My thoughts and prayers and my condolences.”

Nacho Novo pays tribute to late stepson Ross
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Novo was inundated with tributes from fans and former teammates following Ross's passingCredit: Instagram @nnovo10

Meanwhile, former Rangers star Steven Davis added: “Thoughts with you all at this difficult time.”

A spokesperson for Rangers FC wrote: "The thoughts of everyone at Rangers are with you at this sad time Nacho."

Ross's cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

Nacho married Ross’s mother Donna Clark in 2015 following a long-term relationship.

The couple share a teenage son and Novo is stepdad to Donna’s sons Ross and Dylan.

The former striker, who netted 70 goals in 250 games for the Gers, retired from football in 2017.

Nacho Novo - Rangers
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Novo helped fire the Ibrox club to three SPL titles

His efforts saw him inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame three years before hanging up his boots.

During his time at Ibrox, Novo won three league titles and three league cups while lifting the Scottish Cup twice.

Aside from his stint at Rangers, he enjoyed spells with Raith Rovers, Dundee and Greenock Morton.

In 2018, he suffered a heart attack while playing for a Rangers legends team in Berlin and underwent emergency surgery to save his life.

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