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      Trevor Francis death updates — Nottingham Forest legend and Britain’s first million-pound football signing dies aged 69

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      ENGLISH football legend Trevor Francis, who played for several clubs in England, Italy and the United States has died aged 69. Trevor Francis died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain today with efforts now being made to repatriate his body, after he suffered from a suspected heart attack.
      Footy icon Trevor became England’s first-ever £1million player when he transferred from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979.
      He would go on to earn several caps for England, playing 52 times and scoring 12 goals for the Three Lions.
      He later managed both QPR and Sheffield Wednesday and reportedly caused Eric Cantona to storm out after a trial – but Francis denied the story, claiming the Owls never had the budget to sign him.
      Read our blog below for the latest news and updates…
      When did Trevor Francis play for Birmingham City?
      Trevor started off playing football at school in Plymouth before joining Birmingham City.
      He made his debut in 1970 when he was only 16 years old.
      During his time with the club, he scored 119 goals in just 280 appearances.
      Trevor became the first British footballer to request a £1million transfer fee when he joined Forest in 1979.
      Birmingham City honours Trevor Francis
      Birmingham City FC have taken to Twitter paying tribute to club legend Trevor Francis.
      In a heartfelt post, the team wrote: “Blues is deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the passing of Club legend Trevor Francis, at the age of 69 on Monday 24 July 2023.
      “Trevor will forever be revered as a giant of the Club, the player everyone wanted to see.
      “He represented Blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133 goals. Blues sends its thoughts and deepest sympathies to Trevor’s family and friends.”
      Blues is deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the passing of Club legend Trevor Francis, at the age of 69 on Monday 24 July 2023.Trevor will forever be revered as a giant of the Club, the player everyone wanted to see. He represented Blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133… pic.twitter.com/o960MYJhQZ— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) July 24, 2023

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      Trevor Francis was born on April 19, 1954 in Plymouth, where he showed early promise as a footballer at school.
      He made his debut as a forward in 1970 for Birmingham City, where he made 280 appearances for the club.
      In that time, he score an impressive 119 goals, which meant when he departed the club for Nottingham Forest, he was a very valuable asset.
      As a result, his transfer broke records and became the first £1million transfer in England, though his new manager, Brian Clough, claimed it was just shy of this amount by a penny to stop the pressure going to his new signing’s head.

      Who was Trevor’s wife Helen Francis?
      In 2017, Francis was left heartbroken when his beloved wife Helen died.
      The couple had been together for 45 years prior to her passing.
      In his autobiography, One In A Million, Francis opened up on how life without Helen had been “so difficult”.
      Francis said: “It’s so hard because of the deep love I had for Helen and also because I am useless in the house. She did everything for me. I don’t mind admitting that.
      “All of a sudden I am living by myself and I suppose I never contemplated this would ever happen. It is a tougher challenge than anything I ever faced in football.”
      How did Trevor Francis die?
      Trevor Francis died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain today (July 24, 2023) of a suspected heart attack.
      Francis previously suffered a heart attack 11 years ago, and was admitted to hospital in Bordesley Green.
      He had a stent fitted but recovered well, with Birmingham FC’s official Twitter page sharing this update with fans: “Trevor Francis’ family have contacted the club to express their thanks at the overwhelming messages of support from Blues fans.”
      Trevor Francis looked back on iconic European Cup final victory
      Trevor Francis scored the winning goal in Nottingham Forest’s legendary European Cup final victory against Malmo.
      Speaking on the goal, he said: “It was a magical moment. I used to write a column for the Roy of the Rovers comic and this was my own Roy of the Rovers moment.
      “A European debut in a cup final and scoring the winning goal. Nobody had ever done that, had they?”
      Football stars honour England legend
      A host of football stars have taken to social media to remember England and Nottingham Forest icon Trevor Francis.
      England striker Gary Lineker wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear that Trevor Francis has died.
      “A wonderful footballer and lovely man. Was a pleasure to work alongside him both on the pitch and on the telly. RIP Trevor.”
      While an emotional Chris Kamara posted: “Oh no, just heard Trevor Francis has passed away.
      “What a player he was & what a gentleman. Got to know him well when Trevor was doing his Co Commentary’s for Sky a job he loved. RIP Trevor the first Million pound player who always looked a million dollars.”
      Tributes continue to pour in for European Cup icon
      Gary Newbon led tributes to Trevor Francis following his tragic passing.
      He told The Sun: “This is obviously a terrible shock for Trevor and his family and friends.
      “He was revered throughout football and has his place assured in the history of the game.
      “But he was also an incredibly kind and popular man, who will be greatly missed by so, so many people.”
      Gary told how Francis had a stent fitted following a heart attack 12 years ago but appeared to be in good health.
      He added: “Since then he had stayed in incredible shape. He power-walked daily and barely drank. That’s why this comes as such a shock.”
      .css-g9qqck{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-lkp0su{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-1ngsqwo{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1ngsqwo:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1aiajnh{-webkit-box-flex:1;-webkit-flex-grow:1;-ms-flex-positive:1;flex-grow:1;}.css-sughj9{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:28.008px;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:0.5px 0px;}.css-sughj9::before{content:”;margin-bottom:-0.2245em;display:block;}.css-sughj9::after{content:”;margin-top:-0.2425em;display:block;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-17x5lw{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;}.css-k8qt9h{display:inline-block;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;width:100%;}@media screen and (prefers-reduced-motion: no-preference){.css-k8qt9h{transition-property:color,fill;transition-duration:200ms,200ms;transition-timing-function:cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1),cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1);}}@media screen and (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce){.css-k8qt9h{transition-property:color,fill;transition-duration:0ms;transition-timing-function:cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1),cubic-bezier(0, 0, .5, 1);}}.css-k8qt9h:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-dr8sr7{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1tiy4vg{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1pp5s9{margin:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-1pp5s9:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-13krq0h{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-f1cwb0{margin:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-f1cwb0:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1jpzisj{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;width:100%;max-height:88px;border-width:1px 1px 1px 0;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);}.css-1z6bhn{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;height:88px;}.css-pw771{padding:2px 12px;max-height:75px;overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:2;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1px;}Comment: Trevor Francis went from teen sensation to UK’s first £1m player and scored iconic goal for Forest in European final
      The following is an expert from a comment piece by Dave Kidd
      He was Britain’s first £1million footballer, he scored the winner in a European Cup Final and his name is mentioned in the closing music of Only Fools And Horses. 
      From teenage sensation at Birmingham City to a League Cup winner as a veteran at Sheffield, Trevor Francis – who has died aged 69 – was one of English football’s shining lights. 
      But while the striker scored almost 300 goals in a career which spanned nearly a quarter of a century, he will always be primarily remembered for the fee Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest paid to take him across the Midlands from St Andrews in February 1979. 

      When Trevor Francis ‘turned down’ the chance to sign Eric Cantona
      Following his career as a player, Trevor managed both QPR and Sheffield Wednesday – famously causing Eric Cantona to storm out after a trial for the Owls.
      The story goes that Cantona had a trial with the Owls before signing for Leeds.
      But Francis seemingly turned down the chance to sign the Manchester United legend after watching him play a game on an indoor pitch.
      Francis has denied this story, claiming the Owls never had the budget to sign him.
      Viv Anderson honours Trevor Francis
      His former teammate Viv Anderson led tributes to the star alongside a black-and-white image of Francis.
      He said: “Just heard the unbelievable news regarding Trevor Francis, he was such a wonderful person and fabulous teammate he will be sadly missed, my condolences go to his family and friends RIP.”
      Nottingham Forest shares touching tribute
      Nottingham Forest has paid tribute to club legend Trevor Francis following his passing.
      Taking to Twitter, the team said: “Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn the passing of two-time European Cup winner, Trevor Francis.
      “A true Forest legend who will never be forgotten.”
      Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn the passing of two-time European Cup winner, Trevor Francis.A true Forest legend who will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/BPsLxGG73K— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) July 24, 2023

      Fans pay tribute to footy legend
      Football fans from across the globe have taken to social media to pay tribute.
      One fan wrote: “RIP Trevor Francis. First £1million footballer & European Cup winner with Forest.”
      While another heartbroken Nottingham Forest supporter added: “Rest in Peace. An amazing Nottingham Forest legend.”
      Trevor spoke of ‘heartbreak’ after losing beloved wife
      Francis was left heartbroken in 2017 when his beloved wife Helen died.
      The couple, who had been together for 45 years, shared two children together.
      In his autobiography, One In A Million, Francis told how life without Helen had been “so difficult”.
      He also told how working as a pundit was helping to keep him sane after a horrific two years.
      Francis added: “It’s so hard because of the deep love I had for Helen and also because I am useless in the house. She did everything for me. I don’t mind admitting that.
      “All of a sudden I am living by myself and I suppose I never contemplated this would ever happen. It is a tougher challenge than anything I ever faced in football.”
      Trevor Francis’ iconic footballing career
      In 1970, the forward made his debut aged just 16 and went on to net an impressive 119 goals in 280 appearances.
      Francis became the first British footballer to command a £1million transfer fee when he moved from Birmingham to Forest in 1979.
      Manager Clough actually claimed the price tag was £999,999 to make sure the pressure didn’t go to Francis’ head.
      The player made a lasting impression with the club thanks to his world-famous European Cup-winning goal in 1979.
      Francis nodded home a header against Malmo in Rome’s Stadio Olimpico to write Forest into European folklore forever.
      Speaking about the goal previously, he said: “It was a magical moment. I used to write a column for the Roy of the Rovers comic and this was my own Roy of the Rovers moment.
      “A European debut in a cup final and scoring the winning goal. Nobody had ever done that, had they?”
      More on football legend’s passing
      Francis died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain today with efforts now being made to repatriate his body.
      It is believed the former footballer suffered a heart attack.
      Veteran ITV sports presenter and close pal Gary Newbon said: “This is obviously a terrible shock for Trevor and his family and friends.
      “He was revered throughout football and has his place assured in the history of the game.
      “But he was also an incredibly kind and popular man, who will be greatly missed by so, so many people.”
      Trevor Francis’ career

      Birmingham: 1971-79
      Nottingham Forest: 1979-81
      Man City: 1981-82
      Sampdoria: 1982-86
      Atalanta: 1986-87
      Rangers: 2987-88
      Wollongong City: 1988
      QPR: 1988-90
      Sheffield Wednesday: 1990-94
      England: 1977-86

      Trevor Francis looked back on iconic European Cup final victory
      Trevor Francis scored the winning goal in Nottingham Forest’s legendary European Cup final victory against Malmo.
      Speaking on the goal, he said: “It was a magical moment. I used to write a column for the Roy of the Rovers comic and this was my own Roy of the Rovers moment.
      “A European debut in a cup final and scoring the winning goal. Nobody had ever done that, had they?”
      How old was Trevor Francis?
      Trevor Francis was 69 when he passed away.
      The football legend made his debut for Birmingham City at just 16.
      He would go on to become the UK’s first-ever £1million player when he moved to Nottingham Forest in 1979.
      Who did Trevor Francis play for?
      Trevor Francis had a storied and illustrious footballing career.
      During his time as a player, Francis played in England, Scotland, America and several other countries.
      Francis’ teams include:

      Birmingham City
      Detroit Express
      Nottingham Forest
      Manchester City
      Sampdoria
      Atalanta
      Rangers

      Football legend dies age 69
      English football legend Trevor Francis has died at the age of 69.
      The Three Lions star became the UK’s first-ever £1million player when he transferred from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979.
      During his career, Francis played across the globe and scored 12 goals for England in 52 appearances.
      Load more entries… More

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      When did Trevor Francis play for Birmingham City?

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      FORMER England striker Trevor Francis has died aged 69.Here we look at the career of the iconic striker who became English football’s first player to be sold for £1million in the 70s.
      Trevor Francis at the FIFA World Cup in 1982Credit: Getty
      When did Trevor Francis play for Birmingham City?
      Trevor started off playing football at school in Plymouth before joining Birmingham City.
      He made his debut in 1970 when he was only 16 years old.
      During his time with the club, he scored 119 goals in just 280 appearances.
      How much was Trevor Francis’ transfer to Nottingham Forest?
      Trevor became the first British footballer to request a £1million transfer fee when he joined Forest in 1979.
      Read More on Trevor Francis
      The club’s manager at the time, Brian Clough, claimed the official price was £999,999 to make sure the pressure didn’t go to Trevor’s head.
      During his time with Forest, he scored a total of 28 goals in 70 appearances.
      He also scored the winning goal in the 1979 European Cup final.
      Speaking in an interview in 2019 about being the first one million pound player, Trevor said: “I never realised at the time the significance of it,” he says.
      Most read in Football
      “I smashed, literally smashed, the transfer record. Doubled it. It was just a magical figure – a million pounds. Paris Saint-Germain spent nearly £200m on Neymar, but I don’t think it has the same magical appeal that £1m did. Do I feel proud of being the first £1m player? Absolutely.”
      Which other teams did Trevor Francis play for?
      Trevor was eventually sold to Manchester City in 1981 after his spell with Forest.
      He also played for Sampdoria, Atalanta, Rangers, Queens Park Rangers and Sheffield Wednesday.
      The footballer won 52 caps for England scoring 12 goals between 1977 and 1986.
      He also featured at the 1982 World Cup in Spain before retiring from football in 1994.
      How did Trevor Francis die?
      On July 24, 2023, it was reported that Trevor passed away at his home in Marbella.
      A statement said: “Trevor Francis has died at the age of 69. He had a heart attack at his apartment in Spain this morning.
      “On behalf of the family, this has come as a huge shock to everybody. We are all very upset.
      “He was a legendary footballer but he was also an extremely nice person.” More

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      Are Gerry Francis and Trevor Francis related?

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      FOOTBALL fans are mourning the death of Trevor Francis, who has passed away aged 69.Due to his surname, during his life some fans wondered if he was related to fellow footy star Gerry Francis.
      Fans want to know if Trevor Francis and Gerry Francis are related
      Are Gerry Francis and Trevor Francis related?
      Despite sharing the same surname, Gerry Francis and the late Trevor Francis are not related.
      As they were both footballers, some fans were curious to know if they were brothers.
      But they aren’t members of the same family, with Trevor growing up in Plymouth, and Gerry in London.
      Trevor is survived by his brother Ian, and sister Carolyn.
      Read more on Trevor Francis
      Who is Gerry Francis?
      Born on December 6, 1951, Gerry Francis made his first team debut for Queens Park Rangers against Liverpool in March 1969.
      He was captain and central midfield player during the 1970s and was a key player in the QPR side, which came close to winning their first-ever league title in 1976.
      Gerry won 12 caps for the England team between 1974 and 1976, and was captain for eight of those matches.
      His International career was limited by a persistent back injury.
      Most read in Football
      From the early 80s he switched his career to being a manager.
      Who was Trevor Francis?
      Born April 19, 1954, Trevor Francis was a former footballer and manager.
      He began his career as a schoolboy for Plymouth United before he joined Birmingham City.
      In 1970, the forward made his debut aged just 16 and went on to net an impressive 119 goals in 280 appearances.
      The icon was England’s first-ever £1million player and was instrumental in helping Brian Clough’s Forest win the European Cup in 1979.
      He later managed both QPR and Sheffield Wednesday – famously causing Eric Cantona to storm out after a trial for the Owls.
      Trevor died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain on July 24, 2023 with efforts now being made to repatriate his body.
      It is reported the former footballer suffered a heart attack.
      Veteran ITV sports presenter and close pal Gary Newbon said: “This is obviously a terrible shock for Trevor and his family and friends.
      “He was revered throughout football and has his place assured in the history of the game.
      “But he was also an incredibly kind and popular man, who will be greatly missed by so, so many people.”
      Read More on The Sun
      Gary told how Francis had a stent fitted following a heart attack 12 years ago but appeared to be in good health.
      He added: “Since then he had stayed in incredible shape. He power-walked daily and barely drank. That’s why this comes as such a shock.” More

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      Who was Trevor Francis and how did he die?

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      TREVOR FRANCIS entered into the footballing hall of fame when he became England’s first ever £1million player.But now fans of the sporting legend will be mourning his loss after the news of his death at age 69 broke earlier today (July 24, 2023.)
      Trevor Francis on the pitch on May 13, 1978.Credit: Getty
      Who was Trevor Francis?
      Trevor Francis was born on April 19, 1954 in Plymouth, where he showed early promise as a footballer at school.
      He made his debut as a forward in 1970 for Birmingham City, where he made 280 appearances for the club.
      In that time, he score an impressive 119 goals, which meant when he departed the club for Nottingham Forest, he was a very valuable asset.
      As a result, his transfer broke records and became the first £1million transfer in England, though his new manager, Brian Clough, claimed it was just shy of this amount by a penny to stop the pressure going to his new signing’s head.
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      He continued scoring goals for Nottingham Forest for the year he was there, scoring at his European debut for the club in 1979.
      In 1980, after suffering from injuries, he moved to Manchester City in 1980 for £1.2million.
      Injuries continued to be an issue for Francis, but he was still chosen to play in the 1982 World Cup squad for England, and scored twice in the first group stage.
      Nearing the end of his playing career, Francis became player-manager for QPR, after which he took over managing Sheffield Wednesday from Ron Atkinson.
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      His last managerial role was at Crystal Palace, after which he retired from the beautiful game in 1994.
      Outside of his footballing career, he was married to Helen, who sadly died in 2017.
      How did Trevor Francis die?
      Trevor Francis died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain today (July 24, 2023) of a suspected heart attack.
      Francis previously suffered a heart attack 11 years ago, and was admitted to hospital in Bordesley Green.
      He had a stent fitted but recovered well, with Birmingham FC’s official Twitter page sharing this update with fans: “Trevor Francis’ family have contacted the club to express their thanks at the overwhelming messages of support from Blues fans.” More

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      Who are Trevor Francis’ children?

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      ENGLAND’s first-ever £1million player Trevor Francis had died aged 69.The sports star sadly passed away at his apartment near Marbella in Spain.
      England legend Trevor Francis has sadly passed awayCredit: Getty
      Who are Trevor Francis’ children?
      Francis leaves behind two children.
      Not much is known about Francis’ children, with the late star appearing to keep his personal life out of the spotlight.
      Who was Trevor’s wife Helen Francis?
      In 2017, Francis was left heartbroken when his beloved wife Helen died.
      The couple had been together for 45 years prior to her passing.
      Read More in Sport
      In his autobiography, One In A Million, Francis opened up on how life without Helen had been “so difficult”.
      Francis said: “It’s so hard because of the deep love I had for Helen and also because I am useless in the house. She did everything for me. I don’t mind admitting that.
      “All of a sudden I am living by myself and I suppose I never contemplated this would ever happen. It is a tougher challenge than anything I ever faced in football.”
      How did Trevor Francis die?
      On July 24, 2023, it was announced that Francis had died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain.
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      He died after suffering a heart attack, his family confirmed.
      A statement said: “Trevor Francis has died at the age of 69. He had a heart attack at his apartment in Spain this morning.
      “On behalf of the family, this has come as a huge shock to everybody. We are all very upset.
      “He was a legendary footballer but he was also an extremely nice person.”
      Which teams did Trevor Francis play for?
      Francis began his career as a schoolboy for Plymouth before he joined Birmingham City.
      In 1970, at the age of 16, the footballer made his debut and went on to net an impressive 119 goals in 280 appearances.
      Francis became the first British footballer to command a £1million transfer fee when he moved from Birmingham to Forest in 1979 – and he made a lasting impression with the club thanks to his world-famous European Cup-winning goal in 1979.
      The rest of Francis’ time with the club was blighted by injury but he still managed to secure a £1.2million fee to move to Man City in 1980.
      Francis also made the England squad for the 1982 World Cup where he scored twice in the first group stage.
      Read More on The Sun
      He later went on to have stints at Italian giants Sampdoria and later Atalanta before moving back to the UK to play for Rangers.
      Francis later managed both QPR and Sheffield Wednesday – famously causing Eric Cantona to storm out after a trial for the Owls –  before hanging up his boots for good in 1994 after a last managerial role at Crystal Palace. More

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      Trevor Francis dead aged 69: First £1m football player and England legend dies from a heart attack in Marbella

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      NOTTINGHAM Forest star and England legend Trevor Francis has died aged 69 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Marbella.The icon was England’s first-ever £1million player and was instrumental in helping Brian Clough’s Forest win the European Cup in 1979.
      England legend Trevor Francis has sadly passed awayCredit: Getty
      The footballer and manager had a glittering careerCredit: Getty
      He later managed both QPR and Sheffield Wednesday – famously causing Eric Cantona to storm out after a trial for the Owls.
      Francis died at his apartment near Marbella in Spain today from a heart attack, his family confirmed.
      A statement said: “Trevor Francis has died at the age of 69. He had a heart attack at his apartment in Spain this morning.
      “On behalf of the family, this has come as a huge shock to everybody. We are all very upset.
      “He was a legendary footballer but he was also an extremely nice person.”
      Veteran ITV sports presenter and close pal Gary Newbon led tributes to the footballer following the tragedy
      He told The Sun: “This is obviously a terrible shock for Trevor and his family and friends.
      “He was revered throughout football and has his place assured in the history of the game.
      Most read in Football
      “But he was also an incredibly kind and popular man, who will be greatly missed by so, so many people.”
      Gary told how Francis had a stent fitted following a heart attack 12 years ago but appeared to be in good health.
      He added: “Since then he had stayed in incredible shape. He power-walked daily and barely drank. That’s why this comes as such a shock.”
      The footballer began his career as a schoolboy for Plymouth before he joined Birmingham City.
      In 1970, the forward made his debut aged just 16 and went on to net an impressive 119 goals in 280 appearances.
      Francis became the first British footballer to command a £1million transfer fee when he moved from Birmingham to Forest in 1979.
      Manager Clough actually claimed the price tag was £999,999 to make sure the pressure didn’t go to Francis’ head.
      Forest put out a touching tribute on social media this afternoon, saying: “Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn the passing of two-time European Cup winner, Trevor Francis.
      “A true Forest legend who will never be forgotten.”
      Francis made a lasting impression with the club thanks to his world-famous European Cup-winning goal in 1979.
      He nodded home a header against Malmo in Rome’s Stadio Olimpico to write the team into European folklore forever.
      Speaking about the goal previously, he said: “It was a magical moment. I used to write a column for the Roy of the Rovers comic and this was my own Roy of the Rovers moment.
      “A European debut in a cup final and scoring the winning goal. Nobody had ever done that, had they?”
      The rest of Francis’ time with the club was blighted by injury but he still managed to secure a £1.2million fee to move to Man City in 1980.
      He scored two goals against Stoke City on his debut but was frequently forced to sit out due to injury.
      Despite this, Francis made the England squad for the 1982 World Cup where he scored twice in the first group stage.
      On the news of his death the team said: “We are deeply saddened by the news that Trevor Francis has passed away aged 69.
      “He won 52 caps and scored 12 goals – including two at the 1982 World Cup – for the Three Lions between 1977 and 1986.
      “All of our thoughts are with his family, friends and former clubs.”
      He later went on to have stints at Italian giants Sampdoria and later Atalanta before moving back to the UK to play for Rangers.
      Francis had been signed by Graeme Souness, as part of his self-styled “English invasion” at Ibrox, and helped the team win the 1987-88 Scottish League Cup.
      The forward later became a player-manager at QPR in 1988 but left after a year in charge to be replaced by Down Howe.
      He then took over from Ron Atkinson at Sheffield Wednesday before hanging up his boots for good in 1994 after a last managerial role at Crystal Palace.
      Away from his football career, Francis was left heartbroken in 2017 when his beloved wife Helen died.
      The couple, who had been together for 45 years, shared two children together.
      In his autobiography, One In A Million, Francis told how life without Helen had been “so difficult”.
      He also told how working as a pundit was helping to keep him sane after a horrific two years.
      Francis added: “It’s so hard because of the deep love I had for Helen and also because I am useless in the house. She did everything for me. I don’t mind admitting that.
      “All of a sudden I am living by myself and I suppose I never contemplated this would ever happen. It is a tougher challenge than anything I ever faced in football.”
      Tributes have flooded in for the star, including from former teammate Viv Anderson, who shared a black and white image of Francis.
      He said: “Just heard the unbelievable news regarding Trevor Francis, he was such a wonderful person and fabulous teammate he will be sadly missed, my condolences go to his family and friends RIP.”
      Gary Lineker said: “Deeply saddened to hear that Trevor Francis has died.
      “A wonderful footballer and lovely man. Was a pleasure to work alongside him both on the pitch and on the telly. RIP Trevor.”
      Birmingham shared an image of Francis as a teen at the club as they revealed they were “saddened and shocked” by his death.
      The club added: “Trevor will forever be revered as a giant of the Club, the player everyone wanted to see. He represented Blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133 goals.
      “Blues sends its thoughts and deepest sympathies to Trevor’s family and friends.”
      Nottingham Forest called Francis a “true Forest legend who will never be forgotten”.
      While Palace said: “Crystal Palace are mourning the loss of former manager Trevor Francis, who has passed away at the age of 69.
      “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Trevor’s friends and family at this sad time.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Rest in peace, Trevor.”
      Francis becomes the first £1million footballer in a press conference alongside Brian CloughCredit: Getty
      Francis scored the winner for Forest against Malmo in the European Cup in 1979
      He netted the winning goal at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico
      Francis made his debut for Birmingham aged just 16Credit: Getty
      Francis also helped Sheffield Wednesday to top-flight footballCredit: Getty
      Francis previously opened up about the pain of losing wife Helen in 2017 More

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      Luis Suarez Miramontes dead at 88: Spain’s last Ballon d’or winner and former national team manager passes away

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      LEGENDARY football star Luis Suarez Miramontes – Spain’s last winner of the Ballon d’Or – has died aged 88.He is regarded as one of the greatest Spanish football players of all time.
      Spanish football star Luis Suarez MiramontesCredit: Getty
      Luiz Suarez Miramontes (centre) has died aged 88Credit: Getty
      Suarez was a midfielder for Barcelona, Inter Milan and Sampdoria during a playing career that ran from 1953 to 1973.
      He also managed the Spanish national team and led them to the second round of the World Cup at Italia 90.
      Nicknamed The Architect – he is regarded as pioneering the modern attacking midfielder role.
      Suarez played as an inside forward for one of the great Barcelona teams of the 1950s – winning two LaLigas and two Copa de España titles with the club.
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      He won the Ballon D’or in 1960 – finishing ahead of legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskas to win the award.
      In doing so, he became the first Barcelona player to win a Ballon D’or.
      Following his Ballon D’or win in 1960 he transferred to Inter Milan for a world record fee in 1961.
      At Inter he played a crucial role in the ‘Grande Inter’ team which won three Serie A’s and two consecutive European cups – it is regarded as the greatest team in Inter’s history.
      Most read in Football
      Between 1961 and 1970 he made 328 appearances for the club and scored 55 goals – despite playing as a deep lying playmaker.
      Suarez played 32 games for his national side and scored 14 goals – representing Spain at the 1962 and 1966 World Cups.
      His greatest achievement at national level saw him lift the 1964 European Championship as part of the team – their only international trophy until winning the 2008 Euros.
      His managerial career began in 1973 when he managed Genoa.
      His career saw him manage a number of Italian clubs which included three separate stints with Inter.
      The Milanese club led the tributes to their former midfielder, with a tweet saying: “The perfect footballer who, with his talent, has inspired generations. Ciao, Lusito.”
      His former club Barcelona wrote: “Football legend. Barca legend.”
      The club then listed his titles with the club before writing: “We will really miss you. Rest in peace, Luis Suárez Miramontes. 🕊️” More

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      Millwall owner John Berylson, 70, was killed in horror car crash after Range Rover careered off road and hit tree

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      MILLWALL owner John Berylson died in a horror car crash, police have confirmed.The 70-year-old American businessman was driving in Falmouth, Massachusetts, when his Range Rover careered off the road on Tuesday.
      Millwall owner John Berylson died on Tuesday morningCredit: Getty
      The 70-year-old’s Range Rover crashed in Massachusetts and was found in a ditchCredit: NBC 10 Boston
      Police and fire crews raced to the area and found the car in a ditch.
      Lt. Michael Simoneau, of Falmouth Police Department, confirmed to The Sun that Mr Berylson was cut from the wreckage but sadly died at the scene.
      He said: “The deceased vehicle operator from the fatal crash on Sippewissett Road on July 4, has been identified as John G. Berylson, 70, of Wellesley Hills, Ma.
      “The preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle, a 2019 Range Rover was travelling south on Sippewissett Road when it lost control on a curve, and left the roadway.
      read More on John Berylson
      “The vehicle rolled over into a ravine and came to rest against a tree.
      “The cause of the crash remains under investigation.”
      Millwall had last night confirmed Mr Berylson had died in a “tragic accident”, leaving behind wife Amy and three kids Jennifer, James, and Elizabeth.
      The Championship club said in a statement: “John, who turned 70 last month, lost his life in a tragic accident on Tuesday morning.
      Most read in Football
      “John’s sudden and tragic passing will unquestionably impact all those who were fortunate to have known him.
      “He was a truly great man, incredibly devoted to his family, and a person of such remarkable generosity, warmth, and kindness.
      “He lived a storied life, one full of colour and joy, and was infinitely thoughtful of others with an endless desire to share his immense knowledge and experiences to help people.
      “Rest in peace, John, and thank you. You were loved and adored.”
      Mr Berylson first got involved with the London club in 2006 and appointed Kenny Jackett as his first manager in 2007.
      He oversaw the club reaching the semi-finals of the FA Cup in 2013, and then the quarters in 2017 and 2019.
      The Lions were also promoted to the Championship in 2017 under his ownership.
      Just weeks before his death, Berylson was given a standing ovation at the Millwall stadium.
      The Lions narrowly missed out on a playoff position after losing 4-3 to Blackburn Rovers on the last day of the season.
      Duncan Watmore’s double and Oliver Burke’s addition sent Millwall into the break with a two-goal cushion.
      And owner Mr Berylson, a former Harvard graduate, took to the field to interact with fans during half-time on May 8.
      Footage shows the Chairman smiling and clapping at supporters as he made his way around the stands at The Den in Bermondsey, South East London.
      Season ticket holder Lauren Fruen, 34, said: “There is a feeling of huge shock around the club following the news of John Berylson’s death. 
      “We all loved him, he was a great chairman who really understood our club and its fans. He was one of us. 
      Read More On The Sun
      “The last time we saw JB he got a standing ovation from a sell-out crowd at The Den. It was a special moment then, made even more poignant now. 
      “He will be hugely missed.”
      Flowers and tributes left outside Millwall’s grounds
      Fire crews and police raced to the scene in Falmouth, MassachusettsCredit: Cape Cod Incidents More