THE football world has been united in grief by the death of a former Rangers player who lost his battle with motor neurone disease.

David Hagen passed away last night at just 47 following a two-year fight against the illness, the Ibrox club confirmed. 

The former Light Blues midfielder famously came within one game of the Champions League final with the Glasgow club after bursting onto the scene as a youngster. 

READ MORE: Glasgow reacts after Rangers supremo Stewart Robertson slams racist abuse

Rangers said in a statement: "Rangers Football Club is saddened by the news of the death of former player, David Hagen.

"We send our heartfelt condolences to the wider family circle at such a difficult time. Words cannot express, nor provide comfort, for a family during these circumstances.

"David will be remembered for his part in the famous nine in a row side and featured in the amazing 1992-93 season when Rangers won the treble and came within one game of the Champions League final."

Hagen was part of the Scotland squad which reached the final of the 1989 Fifa Under-16 World Championship, where the young Scots lost on penalties to Saudi Arabia.

He made 16 league appearances for Rangers between 1992 and 1994, scoring three times.

Tributes have poured in from across Scottish football for Hagen, who also played for Hearts and Falkirk. 

The Bairns said in a statement: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of David Hagen.

"David fought a courageous fight against MND and will forever be remembered by everyone associated with the club. The thoughts of all at Falkirk FC are with David’s family at this time."

Former Rangers player Nacho Novo wrote: “David Hagen rip my thoughts on friends and family.”

David Edgar, from the popular Heart and Hand podcast, wrote: "Awful news tonight that David Hagen has passed away. RIP."

Author Jeff Holmes wrote: "So sad to hear of the passing of former Ranger David Hagen. Played a part in our great squad of 1992/93, and battled to the very end. Thoughts with his children at this very sad time." 

Stevie Clifford, from the Four Lads Had a Dream blog, wrote: "Very sad news that David Hagen has passed away. Rest in peace, David." 

Ex-Celtic ace Simon Donnelly wrote: “Horrific disease and sad news of a guy we grew up playing against.”

READ MORE: Rangers shortlisted for LGBT+ inclusion award

After leaving Falkirk, Hagen had spells at Livingston, Clyde and Peterhead, before finishing his career with non-league Bo'ness United in 2007.

In October last year, generous Gers fans joined together to pledge more than £11,000 to support Hagen and his family.