Ally McCoist and fellow Rangers legend named on King's Birthday Honours list

Ally McCoist and fellow Rangers legend Graeme Souness have both been named in the King's Birthday Honours list.

Souness, CBE, was listed on the lengthy record in tribute to the 71-year-old's services to Association football and charity as the former Ibrox midfielder is the ambassador for the charity DEBRA. Souness swam the English Channel back in 2023 to raise awareness and money for the charity which helps children and young people who deal with a debilitating disease.

The ex-player and manager was told of the news last night during ITV Sport's broadcast of Scotland vs Germany and he told of his delight at being honoured.

"I'm absolutely thrilled, it's a tremendous honour," he said. Great for me, great for my wife and kids. I think I've got it for the charity I'm involved in which is DEBRA which helps poor children and young adults who suffer from a terrible disease called epidermolysis bullosa.

"We're talking about it so that's only good news, we need to keep going, we're in a fight we can't lose with that. We've got to find a cure for that. I'm glad (the CBE) keeps it in the public eye."

McCoist, OBE, meanwhile, was awarded for services to Association football and broadcasting and he chuckled that, despite Scotland's 5-1 defeat on the night, there was still a reason for the pair to celebrate.

"I'm thrilled. First to congratulate Graeme and his lovely words, well done to him. I'm equally thrilled and absolutely delighted. I know up there my wee mum will be looking down and will be absolutely ecstatic for us.

"Next stop Knighthood? I'm not sure! But it was certainly great news and it's given... if Graeme and I needed an excuse to share a glass of Champagne this evening we've just found it!"