Sir Bobby Charlton dies aged 86

He 'passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning'

In a statement, the family said: “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.”

Along with his glittering 17-year Manchester United career, in which he won three league titles, a European Cup and an FA Cup, Charlton was also one of England's World Cup winning heroes in 1966.

He won 106 caps for England and scored 49 international goals - records for his country at the time.

In a statement, Manchester United said the club was "in mourning" following the passing of "one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club."

They continued: "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, and won the 1966 World Cup.

The club added that their "heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him."

The Red Devils take on Sheffield United at Bramall Lane this evening at 8pm.

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