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      Bobby Charlton & Norma Ball: Their incredible 64-year love story from meeting at Manchester ice rink to raising a family

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      BOBBY Charlton and his sweetheart Norma Ball enjoyed an incredible 64-year love story that began when meeting at a Manchester ice rink.They met the year after England and Manchester United legend Sir Bobby, whose death aged 86 has prompted worldwide tributes, survived the Munich air disaster.
      Devoted married couple Bobby and Norma Charlton had two daughters
      They wed on August 30 1961, two years after first meeting at a Manchester ice rinkCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Sir Bobby and Lady Charlton were together for 64 yearsCredit: 2013 David M. Benett
      The couple married in 1961 and raised two daughters Suzanne, who became a BBC weather presenter, and Andrea.
      Suzanne’s son Robert was named after his iconic granddad.
      It was Lady Charlton who announced in 2020, with his approval, that Sir Bobby had been diagnosed with dementia.
      Norma said they hoped the announcement could “help others” who were suffering and their loved ones.
      Read More On Bobby Charlton
      Both Bobby and Norma, née Ball, were by nature private people – despite his status as a footballing golden boy and a global superstar.
      But the strength of their loving bond was clear to all who knew them, even playing a part in a family fall-out.
      Norma was there watching at Wembley Stadium when Bobby and his team-mates won the World Cup on July 30 1966.
      Days earlier he hit the two unstoppable shots against Portugal which clinched the Three Lions’ place in the final, where they beat West Germany 4-2.
      Most read in Football
      She also accompanied him to Buckingham Palace in July 1994 when he received his knighthood.
      Sir Bobby rarely spoke about his long rift with older brother Jack, who was also part of that World Cup-winning side.
      But he did talk about it in 2007, revealing there was tension between his wife and his mother Cissie as well as Jack.
      And he revealed how when it came to a choice, he sided with his wife.
      Sir Bobby also accused Jack of making “absolutely disgraceful” statements about Norma.
      He said: “My wife is a very strong character and does not suffer fools gladly.
      “I am not suggesting my mother was a fool – there was a clash and it just never went away really.”
      He was responding after Jack claimed Sir Bobby failed to visit their mother before her death and appeared to blame Norma for falling out with her.
      But Sir Bobby insisted his wife had tried in vain to make peace with Cissie, leaving him with an agonising choice to make.
      He told The Times: “We stopped seeing each other – at the end of the day you have to have your priorities and mine was my wife.
      “I suppose if I’d made a major effort, maybe I could have changed things – but it wouldn’t have changed anything at all.”
      Jack died aged 85 in July 2020, having also suffered from dementia.
      Bobby was angry about newspaper interviews in which Jack criticised Norma, describing her as “hoity-toity”.
      The younger brother accused ex-Leeds United defender Jack of making “a big mistake”, adding: “I don’t understand why he did it.
      Read More on The Sun
      “He couldn’t possibly have known her and said what he said – I was astonished.
      “I made my mind up that I would protect my wife whatever happens and that’s the way I saw it.”
      Bobby and Norma celebrated together at a reception following England’s World Cup final triumph over West Germany in July 1966Credit: 2005 Getty Images
      They lived together in Lymm in CheshireCredit: Mirrorpix
      They raised daughters Suzanne and Andrea at their Cheshire homeCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      They travelled from Heathrow to Australia in June 1970 after that summer’s World Cup in Mexico where Bobby was subbed off in England’s quarter-final defeat
      Norma accompanied Bobby to Buckingham Palace when he was knighted in July 1994Credit: UPP:Universal Pictorial Press and Agency
      They were a regular presence at Manchester United’s Old Trafford homeCredit: Carl Recine More

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      Sir Geoff Hurst leads Sir Bobby Charlton tributes as last survivor of England World Cup winning squad hails ‘true great’

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      SIR GEOFF HURST led the tributes for Manchester United and England legend Sir Bobby Charlton, who has died aged 86. The 1966 World Cup winner passed away after a brave battle against dementia for the past three years.
      Tributes have been paid to Sir Bobby Charlton following his death aged 86Credit: Getty
      Sir Geoff Hurst, now the last survivor of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team, led the tributesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Sir Bobby was hailed by Gary Lineker as the greatest-ever English footballerCredit: Getty
      Hurst, now the last surviving member of the 1966 World Cup-winning team, led the way with an emotional tribute.
      He tweeted: “Very sad news today 1 of the true Greats Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away. We will never forget him & nor will all of football
      “A great colleague & friend he will be sorely missed by all of the country beyond sport alone. Condolences to his family & friends from Geoff and Judith.”
      Gary Lineker hailed Sir Bobby as the greatest English footballer in history.
      READ MORE ON SIR BOBBY
      He tweeted: “Deeply saddened to hear that Sir Bobby Charlton has died. A truly wonderful footballer and genuinely lovely man.
      “A World Cup winner, Man Utd 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.”
      United icon Gary Neville wrote: “So sorry to hear the news of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      “The Greatest English Football player and Manchester United’s greatest ambassador.
      Most read in Football
      Charlton, bottom right, scored twice in England’s 1966 World Cup final win over West GermanyCredit: Getty
      Sir Bobby’s older brother Jack passed away in 2020Credit: PA
      “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.”
      England football’s Twitter account said: “It is with a heavy heart that we have learned of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      “An integral part of our 1966 FIFA World Cup winning campaign, Sir Bobby won 106 caps and scored 49 times for the Three Lions.
      “A true legend of our game. We will never forget you, Sir Bobby.”
      Ex-United striker Eric Cantona said: “Rest in peace dear Sir Bobby Charlton. One of the best of all time
      Former England and Chelsea captain John Terry said: “RIP Sir Bobby Charlton Heartbreaking news.
      “A True great and a wonderful man. My condolences are with the Charlton family at this terribly sad time. LEGEND.”
      TalkTV host Piers Morgan said: “RIP Sir Bobby Charlton. Survived the Munich air disaster to become England’s most iconic footballer.
      “Won the World Cup. Won the European Cup. Won the Ballon d’Or.
      “Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for services to the game he loved. A legend and a gentleman.”
      talkSPORT presenter Jamie O’Hara said: “RIP to a football icon Sir Bobby Charlton.”
      A message from Uefa read: “On behalf of the entire European football community, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the game’s true greats. Rest in peace, Sir Bobby.”
      The Premier League tweeted: “The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest players in English football history.  
      Sir Bobby is one of United’s most legendary playersCredit: PA:Press Association
      Sir Bobby remained involved at United long after his retirementCredit: PA:Press Association
      “Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to Sir Bobby’s family and friends, and to all at Manchester United.”
      United’s rivals Arsenal said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      “Our thoughts are with Sir Bobby’s family, friends and everyone connected with Manchester United at this time. May he rest in peace.”
      Chelsea noted: “Everyone at Chelsea Football Club is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      “Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family, friends and those at Manchester United at this difficult time.”
      Former boxer Frank Bruno said: “Bobby Charlton RIP certainly one of the greatest English players of the 60’s & 70’s. We met on many occasions he always called me Big Man or Big Frank.
      “When you look at his life story from being 1 of the Busby Babes and his amazing goals just revisit them on the net. He was a Legend with a capital L sad day for World football.”
      Musician and Black Sabbath bass guitarist Geezer Butler tweeted: “Sad to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, an absolute legend, probably the greatest ever English footballer, and a thoroughly nice man.
      “I was honoured to meet him when Man Utd played Aston Villa in 2010. RIP Sir Bobby.”
      A statement from Sir Bobby’s family on Saturday afternoon confirmed his passing.
      It 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.” 
      Former club United paid with an emotional statement ahead of tonight’s Premier League game at Sheffield United.
      It said: “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.
      “Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.
      Sir Bobby was a survivor of the 1958 Munich air disasterCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      Sir Bobby’s achievements will never be forgotten by England and Man Utd fansCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      “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.
      “A graduate of our youth Academy, Sir Bobby played 758 games and scored 249 goals during 17 years as a Manchester United player, 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. Following his retirement, he went on to serve the club with distinction as a director for 39 years.
      “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.
      “The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”
      Sir Bobby, whose brother Jack died in 2020, made his name at United where he won three league titles, an FA Cup and the club’s first European cup.
      He helped lift the club from the ashes following the devastation of the Munich air disaster, which killed eight of his team-mates. Sir Bobby survived the crash.
      Along with George Best and Denis Law, he was part of the Busby Babes side that famously lifted the European Cup at Wembley in 1968, captaining the side to a 4-1 win over Benfica.
      He played 758 games in red, scoring 249 goals.
      Charlton served as a member of United’s board of directors and even had the South Stand of Old Trafford named after him.
      As an England star, he scored twice in the Three Lions’ 4-2 World Cup triumph over West Germany in 1966 and retired with 106 caps and 49 goals.
      After leaving United in 1973, Charlton moved to Preston for a year before taking his career on the road, playing in Ireland and Australia.
      Read More on The Sun
      Charlton was knighted in 1994 for his services to English football and remains one of our most influential players. More

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      Who were Sir Bobby Charlton’s siblings, and how many did Man Utd legend have?

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away following a battle with dementia. Charlton died aged 86 and is survived by his wife Norma Ball and two children Andrea and Suzanne. 
      Brothers Jack and Bobby Charlton are considered some of the best footballing brothers in historyCredit: PA
      The United icon was one of the survivors of the 1958 Munich air crash and went on to become one of the club’s greatest-ever players. 
      In 1966, Charlton won England’s first and only World Cup alongside heroes Sir Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, and his brother Jack. 
      Charlton was also United’s all-time top goalscorer until Wayne Rooney broke the record in 2017. 
      Who are Bobby Charlton’s siblings? 
      Charlton had two brothers, Jack and Tommy. 

      Jack also won the World Cup in 1966 and played the entirety of his club career with Man Utd’s rivals Leeds. 
      After his playing career finished, Jack Charlton went on to manage Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle. 
      And in 1986, Charlton went on to take the job is Republic of Ireland boss, where he stayed as manager for 10 years. 
      In July 2020, Jack Charlton died aged 85 after suffering from dementia and lymphoma. 
      Most read in Football
      He became the 12th member of the World Cup 1966 winning squad to die. 
      Bobby also has a 76-year-old brother called Tommy, who didn’t play football professionally. 
      But he did watch his two brothers win the World Cup in 1966 on TV as a 20-year-old, despite having a ticket for the final. 
      “I didn’t know where London was,” he told the Telegraph.
      “Bob did get me a ticket but I looked at it and said, ‘What the hell am I going to do with that? I don’t know how I’ll get there. I haven’t got any money’. 
      “The only people I could have asked for money were Bob and Jack and I wasn’t going to do that. That’s never been my way. I watched it at a friend’s house whose mum and dad knew nothing about football.” More

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      Sir Bobby Charlton death updates: Man Utd and England fans in mourning as tributes pour in for 1966 icon

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      TRIBUTES are pouring in after one of England and Manchester United’s greatest players Sir Bobby Charlton has died aged 86.The attacking midfielder, who scored two goals to fire the Three Lions to the World Cup final in 1966 was one of the miracle survivors of the Munich Air Disaster just eight years earlier.
      Many of his team-mates and friends died in that tragedy but Charlton survived to go on to win the European Cup in 1968 under Sir Matt Busby.
      George Best, Denis Law and Charlton were known as the Holy Trinity at United he won the Ballon d’Or in 1966.
      Stay up to date with all the tributes…
      Middlesbrough tribute
      Bobby Charlton was born in Ashington, not far from Middlebrough’s Riverside Stadium.
      The Boro paid a special tribute to the football legend on their scoreboard, as fans applauded.

      Infantino pays tribute
      On behalf of FIFA, and the global football family, I send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      “We mourn the loss of one of England’s 1966 FIFA World Cup winning team and a football legend, whose impact on the game spanned generations.
      “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was close to him, his former teammates, The Football Association and Manchester United. Rest In Peace.”Gianni Infantino
      Most famous image
      As iconic as Bobby Moore’s image holding the Jules Rimet trophy is, Bobby Charlton is their alongside him.
      A true leader, he was inspirational for England in lifting the trophy in 1966.

      Gary Neville on Insta
      Gary Neville has poured his heart on Instagram about the death of Sir Bobby Charlton.
      Charlton died aged 86, following a long battle with dementia today.

      Simon Thomas choked
      Soccer Saturday’s Simon Thomas choked up as he announced the sad news of Sir Bobby Charlton’s death.
      The 1966 World Cup winner passed away aged 86 today after a battle with dementia.
      The Sky Sports presenter was visibly emotional as he confirmed the passing of the football icon.
      He said: “It’s one of those moments that you kind of knew was coming at some point but it is the moment that has so sadly arrived in the last few minutes.
      “It’s a statement that comes from the family of the Manchester United, the England legend Sir Bobby Charlton.”
      Thomas then read out the family statement.
      Cantona’s Instagram note
      Eric Cantona has paid tribute to Bobby Charlton on Instagram with a poignant message.
      Alongside a snap of the legend in Utd colours, Cantona wrote: “Rest in Peace dear Sir Bobby Charlton. One of the best of all-time.”

      Becks owes Charlton everything
      David Beckham revealed in the past how he owes Bobby Charlton everything.
      Becks told BBC Sport: “To look back all those years ago and to say Sir Bobby was one of the main reasons why I was able to join Manchester United.
      “Because after being at his soccer school, he passed the world on to the club that maybe you should look out for me.
      “I owe everything to Sir Bobby because if not, maybe I wouldn’t have had the chance of living my dream of playing for the club that I supported for so many years and the club that my dad supported, so me and my dad have a lot to thank Sir Bobby for.”
      Geoff Hurst’s reaction
      Fellow 1966 World Cup Geoff Hurst said: “Very sad news today 1 of the true Greats Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away. We will never forget him & nor will all of football
      “A great colleague & friend he will be sorely missed by all of the country beyond sport alone. Condolences to his family & friends from Geoff and Judith.”
      More tributes incoming
      Ex-Man Utd star Gary Neville wrote: “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.”
      Tributes pour in
      Following the sad news of Bobby Charlton’s passing, tributes poured in from across the world of football.
      Gary Lineker tweeted: “Deeply saddened to hear that Sir Bobby Charlton has died. A truly wonderful footballer and genuinely lovely man.
      “A World Cup winner, Man Utd 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.”
      Family statement
      A statement from his family confirmed: “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.” Charlton family statement
      Utd hero
      Bobby was United’s all-time top scorer for over 40 years with 249 goals.
      That was eventually beaten by Wayne Rooney.
      However, his legacy at Old Trafford will never be forgotten.
      Three title wins and a European Cup sealed that forever.
      England legend
      Bobby Charlton was a hero for his country.
      His 49 goals in 106 games was an England record, until Wayne Rooney and then Harry Kane bettered it.
      However, one thing he has over those two is a World Cup winners’ medal.
      His three goals in the 1966 tournament propelled England to glory.
      Sir Bobby Charlton has died at the age of 86
      The sad news has reached football fans everywhere that Sir Bobby Charlton has passed away.
      The Manchester United star is arguably England’s greatest ever footballer and won the World Cup in 1966 alongside his brother Jack, Geoff Hurst and Bobby Moore.
      It was a miracle that Charlton ever kicked a football again after the Munich Air Disaster of 1958.
      Charlton, then just, 20 walked away with mild injuries compared to other team-mates including Duncan Edwards, who died a short time later.
      He went on to win the European Cup with Manchester United in 1968 and clinched the Ballon d’Or after England’s triumph in the World Cup.
      His love, as ever, was always Manchester United and his association with the club lasted until the day of his death.
      He was idolised by David Beckham and Wayne Rooney at Old Trafford, as well as Sir Alex Ferguson.
      A statue of Charlton, George Best and Denis Law stands outside the fabled Theatre of Dreams with the three embracing.
      The football world will be in mourning after Charlton’s sad death and everyone who has kicked a ball for United and England will salute one of the greatest ever to play the game. More

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      Who is Sir Bobby Charlton’s wife Norma Ball and do they have children together?

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      SIR BOBBY CHARLTON will forever be known as one of the greatest footballers to grace the pitch.The midfield maestro scored 249 goals in 758 games for Manchester United, alongside helping England to win the World Cup in 1966.
      Sir Bobby Charlton and his wife Norma were marriedCredit: PA
      But sadly, the footballing legend has tragically passed away at age 86.
      And not many will be hurt more than his long-term love Norma Ball.
      Who is Sir Bobby Charlton’s wife Norma Ball?
      Sir Bobby Charlton’s wife Norma opted to keep her lifestyle private.
      However, it was reported that in 1959, she met Bobby at an ice skating rink in Manchester.
      Read More on Bobby Charlton
      The lovebirds were together for two years before deciding to officially tie the knot.
      Norma enjoyed the highs of Bobby Charlton’s career such as winning the World Cup in 1966.
      But she has also been Bobby Charlton’s rock for the tragic times – most notably the horrific Munich Air Disaster in 1958.
      And in 2020, Norma bravely confirmed that Bobby had been suffering from dementia hoping that the diagnosis ‘could help others’.
      Most read in Football
      Do they have children together?
      Sir Bobby Charlton and his wife Norma have two daughters together – Suzanne and Andrea.
      Suzanne was a weather forecaster for the BBC during the 1960s. More

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      Sir Bobby Charlton dead: Manchester United and England World Cup hero dies aged 86 after dementia battle

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      ENGLAND’S 1966 World Cup winning hero Sir Bobby Charlton has tragically died aged 86.The former Man Utd legend passed away after a battle with dementia just a week after celebrating his birthday.
      Sir Bobby Charlton has died aged 86Credit: Getty
      The legendary midfielder is considered one of England’s greatest talentsCredit: PA
      Sir Bobby’s wife Norma revealed his battle with the disease in 2020Credit: PA
      His heartbroken family confirmed today that the Sir Bobby “passed away peacefully” during the early hours of Saturday morning, surrounded by his loved ones.
      A statement from the 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.”
      Read more on the footballing legend
      Manchester United also paid their respects to the legend and said the club is in mourning following the news.
      They said: “Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.”
      His brother Jack, who died aged 85 in July 2020, had also suffered with the disease in his later life.
      And brother Gordon died in January aged 79 after a battle with cancer and dementia.
      Most read in Football
      Sir Bobby is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
      He played in the Three Lions’ World Cup triumph in 1966 and went on to win Ballon d’Or later that year.
      He also scored 249 goals in 758 games for Manchester United – helping them to their first ever European Cup win in 1968.
      Despite playing as a midfielder, Sir Bobby netted a further 49 times in 106 games for England.
      He spent almost all of his playing career at Man Utd and was renowned for his passes and long-range shots.
      Sir Bobby survived the Munich Air Disaster in 1958 that killed eight of his teammates.
      His wife Lady Norma revealed the star’s battle with dementia in November 2020 in a bid to “help others”.
      The sad news furthered calls to investigate the link between football and dementia more vigorously.
      Nobby Stiles, Martin Peters, Jack Charlton and Ray Wilson have all died since 2018 after living with dementia.
      Sir Bobby was born on October 11, 1937, in mining village of Ashington, Northumberland.
      He joined Utd when he was 15 and made his league debut against Charlton where he scored twice despite a sprained ankle.
      The star’s manager Matt Busby said of Sir Bobby: “There has never been a more popular footballer.
      “He was as near perfection as man and player as it is possible to be.”
      In his personal life, Sir Bobby famously fell out with brother Jack, who also helped steer England to World Cup glory.
      Jack accused his brother of not visiting their mother Cissie before her death in 1996.
      Sir Bobby then revealed his wife Norma had been locked in a rift with Cissie and the footballer had taken his spouse’s side.
      In 2007, he spoke of their tumultuous relationship after claiming Jack said some ‘absolutely disgraceful’ comments about his wife.
      Bobby told the Guardian: “[Jack] came out in the newspapers saying things about my wife that were absolutely disgraceful. Nonsense.
      “Ask anybody that ever met my wife: ‘hoity-toity’ is not a word they’d use.
      “My brother made a big mistake. I don’t understand why he did it. He couldn’t possibly have known her and said what he said. I was astonished.”
      MANCHESTER UNITED STATEMENT IN FULL
      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.
      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.
      A graduate of our youth Academy, Sir Bobby played 758 games and scored 249 goals during 17 years as a Manchester United player, 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.
      Following his retirement, he went on to serve the club with distinction as a director for 39 years.
      Read More on The Sun
      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.
      The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.
      Sir Bobby played in England’s World Cup triumph in 1966Credit: Getty
      He won the Ballon d’Or as the world’s best player in the same yearCredit: Rex
      Nobby Stiles with Bobby and his brother Jack on Brocton Hall Golf Course in StaffordshireCredit: Getty
      Sir Bobby pictured with his brother JackCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Bobby is pictured with Sir Alex Ferguson and Mark Hughes after an FA Cup win More

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      Emotional Graeme Souness leads stars at Francis Lee’s funeral as world of football honours Man City and England legend

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      SCORES of mourners turned out to pay their respects to the late Francis Lee.The former Manchester City and England star passed away earlier this month aged 79 following a long battle with cancer.
      Former Manchester City striker Francis Lee passed away this month aged 79Credit: REX
      Lee passed away following a long battle with cancerCredit: GETTY
      The beloved Lee was laid to rest by his family on ThursdayCredit: SPLASH
      Graeme Souness was one of several former players in attendance to pay their respectsCredit: PA
      Lee – who scored 148 goals in 330 appearances for City – was laid to rest by his friends and family on Thursday morning following a service at Manchester Cathedral.
      Lee’s former City team-mates Tony Book, Mike Summerbee and Joe Royle were among the mourners, as was ex-Sky Blue Micah Richards.
      Graeme Souness was also in attendance and looked emotional before the service.
      City paid tribute to their late striker immediately after learning of his passing, writing: “It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and Chairman Francis Lee, aged 79.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “A Club legend in every sense, Francis made 330 appearances for City, scoring 148 goals.”
      It continued: “Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.”
      Club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Francis will always be remembered as one of Manchester City’s greats.
      “His critical contribution to the Club’s unprecedented success in the 60s and 70s was characterised by flair, dynamism and excitement.
      Most read in Football
      Francis Lee’s funeral was well-attendedCredit: SPLASH
      The service for the late Lee was held at Manchester CathedralCredit: SPLASH
      Lee’s former Manchester City team-mate Tony Book was in attendanceCredit: PA
      Joe Royle also attended the service of his former City team-mateCredit: PA
      Micah Richards also paid his respects to the late LeeCredit: PA
      “His record as the Club’s top scorer for five consecutive seasons, his many goals for Club and Country, and his 27 England caps, are all testament to his quality as a player.
      “These are records that will stand the test of time.
      “But, what should also never be forgotten is that, as both player and Chairman, he constantly demonstrated his love, passion and commitment to the Club.
      “It was an extension of his larger-than-life personality. A personality that made an impression wherever he went.
      “His passing will sadden not only those connected to Manchester City, but the wider football family.
      “On behalf of everyone at the Club, our thoughts, thanks, and deepest sympathies are with Francis’ family and friends.”
      Summerbee said of his late and beloved pal: “It is an honour to be able to say Francis Lee was both a friend and teammate.
      “He is a man I will always hold in the highest regard – a truly brilliant footballer and a fantastic person.
      The late Lee was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2016Credit: SPLASH
      “Much of what Manchester City achieved in the 60s and 70s was down to Francis.
      “He was a superb goalscorer and a man who could create chances from nothing.
      “He is, quite rightly, seen as one of this club’s best-ever players.
      “This is desperately sad news for Francis’ friends and family – but also for Manchester City Football Club. We have lost a true giant.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I want to send my thoughts and prayers to his wonderful wife Gill and his children Charlotte, Jonny and Nik.
      “Everyone at Manchester City is thinking of you.” More

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      Inside Tabby Brown’s high profile relationships with Prem stars Raheem Sterling & Mario Balotelli before her death at 38

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      TABBY Brown tragically passed away aged 38, leaving fans and loved ones devastated.Much-loved Tabby modelled for Cosmopolitan and ELLE but also previously dated footballers Raheem Sterling and Mario Balotelli.
      Playboy model Tabby Brown has died aged 38Credit: Instagram
      Tabby Brown dated Mario Balotelli in 2011
      Raheem Sterling also had a hotel date with the lingerie modelCredit: Getty
      Tabby also appeared in ads for Canon, Virgin Atlantic, AXE and Lynx, and starred in Channel 5’s The Bachelor.
      Heartbroken fans, friends and music stars took to social media to pay tribute to Tabby after the shocking news.
      The Playboy model often moved in high-profile circles and was known to have relationships with some famous footballers.
      Tabby dated Mario Balotelli for seven months after first meeting the former Premier League striker in a nightclub in 2011.
      Read More in Football
      Balotelli, who was at Man City at the time, befriended her on Facebook and then convinced her to go on a date with him.
      “I really fell for Mario – against my better judgment,” she told the Mirror in 2013.
      “He told me he wanted us to settle down and have a family.
      “Then I found out he was having a baby with his ex, there were constant stories about him partying with other women, and all the ‘she’s just a friend’ texts.
      Most read in Football
      “So I ended it in November. Mario couldn’t believe it and thought he could sweet-talk me into going back to him.
      “When he realised there was no chance he took it very badly. But that’s because Mario has never been dumped by a woman before. He’s used to getting exactly what he wants.”
      And England forward Sterling previously had a hotel date with the lingerie model at a posh Manchester hotel in March 2016.
      It came just weeks after he set up home with Paige Milian in a £3.5million pad in Wilmslow, Cheshire.
      The now-Chelsea star was driven by a pal in a blacked-out limo to the model’s city centre hotel.
      Sterling then disappeared for an hour in the building, where she had checked in the night before.
      The star was then spotted having a chat with the model in the bar while Tabby ate lunch.
      It it also claimed that Sterling has previously sent Tabby gifts and flowers after he first met her in a London nightclub.
      And he even reportedly arranged for her to have a VIP ticket to watch him play in the Capital One Cup Final, which saw Sterling and his City team-mates beat Liverpool.
      Devastated fans and music stars took to social media to pay tribute to the model under her final post in February 2022.
      Musician NayNay wrote: “What a light u were, Your outer exterior matched your insides, so beautiful.
      “I’m genuinely shocked and saddened you’re gone. Rest in eternal peace Tabby.”
      “Heartbroken. A true angel – love you tabs – sending you love and light as you transition x,” said another.
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      A third wrote: “Rest in peace beautiful soul.”
      Despite her last post being over a year ago, Tabby had uploaded glam reels to her Insta story highlights just weeks ago before her shock death. More