Rangers skipper Lee Wallace admits the death of former teammate Arnold Peralta has devastated the Ibrox squad.
Honduras international Peralta was killed last Thursday after being gunned down in his home city of La Ceiba while out shopping with his partner Vanessa and their young daughter.
His death has shocked the football world and Wallace admits his former Light Blues colleagues -- who wore black armbands for Saturday's Championship clash with Morton in tribute -- are struggling to comprehend what happened to the 26-year-old.
Peralta's funeral took place just 48 hours after his tragic death and a Rangers scarf was draped across his coffin as it was led through throngs of mourners.
Speaking for the first time about his ex-teammate's death, Wallace said: "It was utter shock. I woke up to texts and news reports about the horrific news. I was fortunate enough to have played with Arnold during his 18 months at the club and the fans will recognise that he was one of us for that period.
"He dedicated himself tremendously. We know he didn't quite get there on the football side but he was learning, wanting to do well and had a deep passion for the club.
"He loved it here. We saw the article from the old gaffer Ally McCoist last week. He mentioned he had a deep desire to do well here and that was Arnold in a nutshell. He always trained with a smile on his face.
"He should now be getting ready to celebrate Christmas with his family and his new kid but what has happened is a total shock to all of us.
"Speaking on behalf of Rangers and everyone connected with the club, we are all totally devastated and we send all our thoughts at this dark time to Arnold's family."
Peralta spent 18 months in Glasgow, helping Gers win the 2013-14 Scottish League One title before he returned to Honduras.