Sir Bobby Charlton, the Manchester United and England legend, has died aged 86.
Charlton is considered one of Manchester United’s greatest ever players. He scored 249 goals in 758 games between 1956 and 1973. He won the European Cup with United in 1968, as well as three First Division titles.
The 1966 World Cup winner earned 106 caps for England and scored 49 times, a goalscoring record he held from 1970 to 2015.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed away peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning,” said a statement from his family.
“He was surrounded by his family. His family would like to express their gratitude to everyone who contributed to his care and to the many people who loved and supported him.
“We ask that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”
Manchester United also paid their own tribute to Charlton, who they called “one of the greatest and most loved players in the club’s history”.
“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions of people, not just in Manchester or Britain, but everywhere where football is played,” a club statement said.
“He was admired as much for his sportsmanship and integrity as for his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game.”
“A graduate of our youth academy, Sir Bobby played 758 games and scored 249 goals during 17 years as a player for Manchester United, winning the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup. For England he won 106 caps and scored 49 goals for England and won the 1966 World Cup.
“After his retirement, he served the club with distinction as a director for 39 years. His unrivaled record of performance, 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.
“The club’s sincere condolences go out to his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”
Charlton’s club career is most closely associated with Manchester United, but he also played for and managed Preston North End.
They have praised him as “a true legend of our game”.