Football News - Sir Bobby Robson dies - 31/07/09
Former England manager Sir Bobby Robson has died at the age of 76. Robson was one of the most respected and well-liked figures in the football world and his managerial career included spells at Ipswich, Newcastle United, PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona.
A statement issued on behalf of his family said:
"It is with great sadness that it has been announced today that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer.
"He died very peacefully this morning (Friday) at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.
"Sir Bobby's funeral will be private and for family members only. A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby's life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.
"Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time."
Robson had been battling cancer for the past 15 years and set up the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to help with the earlier detection and treatment of the disease. Robson's final public appearance came at St James' Park on Sunday when tens of thousands of fans turned out to support a charity match to raise funds for his foundation.
As a player, Robson was a key member of the Fulham and West Brom team during the 1950s and 1960s and also won 20 caps for England. He took England to the brink of the World Cup final during Italia 90 only to see their hopes ended in a dramatic penalty shoot-out defeat by West Germany in the semi-finals.
I'm sure football fans will agree with the SoccerBible when we say Bobby Robson was an absolute legend of the game, he was a true gentleman who will be missed by world football.
