SIR BOBBY CHARLTON’S brother has released a heartfelt tribute to the Manchester United and England legend.
Bobby Charlton passed away on Saturday at the age of 86 after a battle with dementia.
And alongside an outpouring of love from all around the footballing world, Sir Bobby’s youngest brother Tommy has released a tribute to his “hero”.
The 77-year-old is the last surviving of the three Charlton brothers and has said that Sir Bobby will be reunited with eldest brother Jack in heaven, who passed away in 2020 aged 85.
Speaking to The Mirror, Tommy said: “Throughout my life, from being a little boy, I have never felt anything other than pride in both of Jack and Bob.
“Being the youngest, Jack was a big, towering guy, my big brother, I looked up to him growing up. And I respected Bob’s integrity and intelligence. You could talk to him about any subject.
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“I am a little bit annoyed that football took them away from me when we were young.
“From the age of ten, I would see them when they came home from their clubs, or we went to visit. Other families were growing up together.
“If ever there was a place reserved in heaven, it is for Bob. He is going to be up there. He was world famous, he was so loved.
“He and Jack were everybody’s heroes, they were idols to other people. But to me, they were my brothers. That is where my heart is, with my brothers.”
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Jack and Sir Bobby were integral parts of England’s World Cup-winning squad in 1966.
But the pair didn’t always have an easy relationship with difficult moments putting a strain on their bond.
However, they were able to put their differences aside for an embrace after they lifted the Jules Rimet some 57 years ago.
Sir Bobby’s passing means Sir Geoff Hurst is the only living member remaining of England’s World Cup winning squad.
Fans have mourned the loss of one of the game’s greatest ever players while Man Utd players observed a minute’s silence ahead of their 2-1 victory over Sheffield United on Saturday night.
Stars have also paid tribute to the footballing great with the likes of Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney speaking highly of the icon.
Prince William also spoke about Sir Bobby labelling him as a “legend” and “gentleman”.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
