Sad day: Man Utd legend Charlton passes away aged 86
Manchester United and England legend Sir Bobby Charlton has sadly passed away at the age of 86, his family have announced in a statement.
Charlton was a key member of England’s victorious 1966 World Cup team and also enjoyed great success at club level with United between 1965 and 1973, famously helping them become the first English club to win the European Cup in 1968.
A statement from the Charlton 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.”
In his 17-year playing career with United, Charlton made 758 appearances and scored 249 goals, which were long-standing records until they were eventually broken by Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney respectively.
He won eight trophies with the Red Devils in total, including three First Division titles.
Charlton also enjoyed a hugely successful 12-year career with England, scoring 49 goals from 106 appearances.
United wrote in a statement of their own: “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.
“The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him.”
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