Ex-QPR boss Smith hails ‘special’ McDonald
Former QPR boss Jim Smith has spoken of his deep sadness at the sudden death of Alan McDonald.
Smith, who managed Rangers between 1985 and 1988, told West London Sport he was struggling to come to terms with the news that ex-R’s stalwart McDonald had passed away at the age of 48.
- McDonald was loved by QPR fans.
“It’s come as such a shock really. It’s very difficult to get my head around,” said Smith.
“He was a great player, a super leader and a great character. I loved working with him and I’m shocked and sad about what’s happened.
“He was a player who, as a manager, you always knew would give you 100%. He did his job every time.
“He was a really special lad – great for his club and for his country. It’s a real privilege to have been his manager.”
McDonald enjoyed some of the best days of his 17-year Rangers career while Smith was in charge at Loftus Road.
He helped the club reach the 1986 Milk Cup final and played for Northern Ireland in the World Cup later that year.
“I was lucky enough to have him when he was possibly at his absolute peak,” Smith added.
“There were some good centre-backs around at that time but he was right up there with them, no question about it.
“He was a very good player but had no ego. He came in, just did his job and you knew you could rely on him.”
See also:
Former team-mates pay tribute to QPR hero
QPR legend McDonald ‘was like a big kid’
Big Mac has been a big part of my life – I’ll miss him
I’ll never forget my friend Macca and the great times we had
From Mexico to Huddersfield: Ten memories of Macca
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