It is a tragic day for football. At the age of 86, Manchester United and England legend Sir Bobby Charlton has sadly passed away.
A statement from Charlton's family read: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family.
"His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family's privacy be respected at this time."
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A graduate of Manchester United's youth Academy, Charlton played 758 games and scored 249 goals during his 17 year spell at Old Trafford, winning the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup.
For England, he won 106 caps and scored 49 goals, and won the 1966 World Cup.
Following his retirement, he went on to serve United as a director for 39 years.
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“Manchester United are in mourning following the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club," the club said in a statement on their website.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.
“He was admired as much for his sportsmanship and integrity as he was for his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game.”
The statement added: "His unparalleled record of achievement, character and service will be forever etched in the history of Manchester United and English football; and his legacy will live on through the life-changing work of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.
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"The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him."
The football world have paid tribute to Charlton following his death.
Former England international Gary Lineker wrote: "Deeply saddened to hear that Sir Bobby Charlton has died. A truly wonderful footballer and genuinely lovely man. A World Cup winner, @ManUtd great and, for me, England’s greatest ever player. He may no longer be with us but he’ll have footballing immortality. RIP Sir Bobby."
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Manchester United legend Gary Neville also reacted to the news, saying: "So sorry to hear the news of Sir Bobby Charlton. The Greatest English Football player and Manchester United’s greatest ambassador. A champion on and off the pitch and a Busby Babe that paved the way for all to come at United. Rest In Peace Sir Bobby."
United We Stand founder Andy Mitten added: "Bobby Charlton saw close friends die at Munich. He helped lead Manchester United's recovery to become English, then European champions. For decades the club's record goal and appearance holder, he was a World Cup winner and European player of the year too. What a life. RIP."
Our thoughts and condolences go to Sir Bobby’s family and friends.
Featured Image Credit: Getty ImagesTopics: Manchester United, Premier League
