A Tribute To Raymond Colin Wilkins 1956 - 2018
“A goal made in England. The throw from Gary Stevens, the header on from Terry Butcher, the stunning volley from Wilkins!”
Growing up as a Rangers fan, my Dad would tell me stories of days gone by supporting the Gers. Having lived through some bad period in the 60s and then again in the 80s, he recalled the Souness Era with great fondness and one game that he always talked about was a 5-1 victory at home to Celtic when Ray Wilkins scored a volley that has lived long in the memory of Rangers fans. Commentator Jock Brown famously called it “A goal made in England.” – a phrase that intrinsically makes the Bears remember Ray and the English legion of players at Ibrox during that time.
Ray Wilkins would possibly be better known to people my age for his managerial and punditry work. It was only then, the full extent of his stature in football would become clear as I began to learn of his other footballing achievements before coming to Rangers. Achieving 84 England caps put him into the top 20 capped England players. As a pundit, he had such respect and presence in the studio as well as knowledge of the game and charisma that would make people pay attention and listen.
When he passed away, stories began to circulate on the internet and social media of Ray’s excellent character as a person. These came from players he had helped and inspired but also supporters who had met him. There were so many posts detailing how Ray made time for supporters and didn’t let his fame keep him off the ground. One of the most emotional tales, came from Nigel Quashie.
This is just one example of the character that he was. Ray inspired many people in him time as a player, he mentored youth players, set an example and then even gave fans an excellent insight into the game and enhanced our viewing pleasure as a pundit. Ray had all the characteristic of a top gent. His kindness has been well documented but he was never afraid to stick up for himself and what he believe in. He possessed a never say die attitude and was never scared to nail his colours to the mast. Rest in peace Ray.