Rangers and Falkirk tributes to David Hagen after MND battle

Tributes have been paid to former Falkirk, Hearts and Rangers midfielder David Hagen who has died.
David Hagen, pictured at his benefit game at The Falkirk Stadium in 2018, has died after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.David Hagen, pictured at his benefit game at The Falkirk Stadium in 2018, has died after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.
David Hagen, pictured at his benefit game at The Falkirk Stadium in 2018, has died after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.

He was 47. In 2018 it was announced Hagen had been suffering with motor neurone disease.

In a social media statement the Bairns said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of David Hagen.

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“David fought a courageous fight against MND and will forever be remembered by everyone associated with the club.

Rangers' former players benevolent fund dinner. Group hosted a fundraiser for former player David Hagen in October 2018 at the Beancross restaurant.  Picture: Alan MurrayRangers' former players benevolent fund dinner. Group hosted a fundraiser for former player David Hagen in October 2018 at the Beancross restaurant.  Picture: Alan Murray
Rangers' former players benevolent fund dinner. Group hosted a fundraiser for former player David Hagen in October 2018 at the Beancross restaurant. Picture: Alan Murray

“The thoughts of all at Falkirk FC are with David’s family at this time.”

Hagen began his career locally, playing at Grahamston boys club before earning a move to Rangers where he was played part in the nine-in-a-row era at Ibrox under Walter Smith.

Breaking through alongside future Falkirk boss Steven Pressley, Hagen played 16 times for Rangers including in a momentous European campaign in 1992/93 before moving to Hearts.

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He relocated back to Falkirk where he grew up and was a popular figure and claimed his place in Bairns history when he assisted Paul McGrillen’s headed winner in the Scottish Cup semi-final win against Celtic – co-incidentally held at his old ground Ibrox – and helped Alex Totten’s side to one of four Scottlish League Challenge Cups with the winner over Queen of the South at McDiarmid Park in 1998.

Hagen takes on John Philliben of Motherwell in one of his 27 games at Hearts.Hagen takes on John Philliben of Motherwell in one of his 27 games at Hearts.
Hagen takes on John Philliben of Motherwell in one of his 27 games at Hearts.

After 173 games in five years he left Brockville for Livingston, before pitching up at Clyde, Peterhead and Bo’ness United.

He became a taxi driver in the Falkirk district before his diagnosis was revealed two years ago.

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Hagen died on Friday, two years and one week since his illness was made public, he was 47.

Alex Totten remained close to his former charge who helped the Bairns boss to silverware. Picture: Michael Gillen.Alex Totten remained close to his former charge who helped the Bairns boss to silverware. Picture: Michael Gillen.
Alex Totten remained close to his former charge who helped the Bairns boss to silverware. Picture: Michael Gillen.

Rangers posted a tribute on the club website. It read: “Rangers Football Club is saddened by the news of the death of former player, David Hagen.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the wider family circle at such a difficult time. Words cannot express, nor provide comfort, for a family during these circumstances.

“David will be remembered for his part in the famous Nine in a Row side and featured in the amazing 1992-93 season when Rangers won the treble and came within one game of the Champions League final.”

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Internationally Hagen is remembered as part of the famous Scottish youth side who reached the World Cup Final against Saudi Arabia in 1989. He also collected international caps at under-21 level.

Two future Bairns - Hagen and Brian Hamilton at HeartsTwo future Bairns - Hagen and Brian Hamilton at Hearts
Two future Bairns - Hagen and Brian Hamilton at Hearts

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