Fernando Ricksen has died aged 43 following a battle with motor neurone disease, his former club Rangers have announced.
The 12-cap Netherlands international's condition came to light in October 2013, shortly after his retirement from football.
Rangers announced the news of Ricksen's death on Wednesday as they paid tribute to their Hall of Fame member.
A club statement read: "Rangers is deeply saddened to announce that former player Fernando Ricksen passed away this morning following his battle with motor neurone disease.
"In October 2013 he revealed he was suffering from motor neurone disease and since then has fought a terrific battle against the condition, raising awareness and funds for the Fernando Ricksen Foundation, which aims to help others suffering from the illness.
"A benefit match was held at Ibrox in January 2015 and attracted over 41,000 fans to Ibrox.
"It raised £320,000 with the proceeds split between Fernando, his daughter Isabella, MND Scotland and the Rangers Charity Foundation.
"The thoughts of everyone at Rangers is today with his wife Veronika, his daughter Isabella and all his family and friends."
Fernando Ricksen 1976-2019 pic.twitter.com/urKJAkfQVk
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) September 18, 2019
Ricksen joined Rangers from Dutch outfit AZ in 2000 and spent six seasons at Ibrox, winning the league title twice along with a pair of Scottish Cup victories.
Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell extended "sincere and heartfelt sympathies" to Ricksen's family on behalf of Rangers' crosstown rivals.
"Fernando was part of Scottish football for a number of years and for him to be taken so young is a huge tragedy," Lawwell said.
"He fought this terrible condition with such courage and we should all admire and respect the inspirational way in which he tackled the challenge which he faced. He showed immense bravery throughout.
"Our thoughts and prayers of course are with Fernando's family and friends at such a difficult time."
Ricksen left Scotland for Russian side Zenit in August 2006, initially on loan, and was an unused substitute when Dick Advocaat's men triumphed over Rangers in the UEFA Cup final the following year.
The versatile right-back finished his career after returning to his first professional club, Fortuna Sittard.
