Huge banner displayed for tragic Rangers fan Thomas McAllister ahead of funeral

A huge banner has been unfurled over a busy Glasgow road in tribute to a tragic Rangers fan. The emotional show of support for Thomas McAllister has been displayed over a bridge on Great Western Road as mourners before gathered to pay their final respects at his funeral on Thursday.

Thomas, known by pals, as Tam, sadly died while following the Light Blues on a European trip to Lisbon last month. The 25-year-old was pronounced dead after falling off a chair in a hotel in the Portuguese capital, shortly after Rangers' clash with Benfica.

A service was held in Clydebank for the dad-of-two from Drumchapel. The banner over a bridge on the A82 read: "Rest Easy Tam McAllister,".

The banner is similar to one unveiled by Rangers fans in the return leg against Benfica at Ibrox on March 14. Following his shock death tributes poured in for popular Tam, with an online fundraiser set up by close pal Andrew Johnston.

The Just Giving page has pulled in more than £30,000. Well wishers at the time posted tributes to the much-loved supporter.

Lynne McKay who donated said: "My despair at this tragic loss of our young bear knows no bounds - can't get over it and I send all my love to his family and friends.....he was so happy on his last day it breaks my heart."

Another wrote: "Thinking of all his friends, family and two beautiful babies. Sending love to you all during these tough times."

Whilst Jodie Houston commented: "Nobody should go to support their team and never return."

Rangers FC officially paid tribute to the late supporter as they announced his sad passing.

In a statement the club said: "It is with profound sadness Rangers FC has been made aware supporter Thomas McAllister has passed away in Lisbon following last night’s UEFA Europa League tie with Benfica.

"The immediate thoughts of everyone at the club are with Thomas’ family and friends, and we will remain in constant contact with both the Portuguese and British authorities over this tragic incident."

Portuguese police at the time launched a probe into Tam's death, which they said did "not appear to be suspicious".

A spokesman for the Policia Judiciaria previously said: “I can confirm we are investigating the death of a man at a hotel in Lisbon last night. We are still awaiting the results of an autopsy before we can say more.”

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