Manchester United legend, Sir Bobby Charlton is dead

Sir Bobby Charlton, a legendary figure for both England and Manchester United, passed away at the age of 86, as announced by the Premier League club on Saturday.

In 1966, Charlton was a vital part of England’s World Cup-winning team, and just two years later, he netted two crucial goals at Wembley to secure Manchester United’s victory in the European Cup.

A club statement read on Saturday: “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. 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.”

After joining United as a schoolboy in 1953, Charlton was a member of the famed academy under manager Sir Matt Busby — with the players becoming affectionately known as the “Busby Babes” — and won three successive FA Youth Cups from 1954 to 1956.

Charlton made his professional debut that same year and won his first league title in the 1956-57 season, scoring 10 goals in 14 First Division appearances.