Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton has died aged 86

Manchester United and England great Sir Bobby Charlton has died at the age of 86.

Charlton was a Ballon d'Or winner and a key member of England’s 1966 FIFA World Cup-winning team.

He also enjoyed great success at club level with United, who became the first English club to win the European Cup in 1968.

A statement on behalf of the Charlton 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.”

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In a statement, Manchester United said: "The club is 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;

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

Sir Bobby will be remembered as one of England's greatest ever players, having scored 49 goals in 103 games.

After making his debut for United in 1956, he went on to play 758 matches for the club, scoring 249 goals.

Born in Ashington on 11 October 1937, Charlton played in the World Cup final alongside his brother Jack, who died aged 85 in 2020.

Sir Bobby was diagnosed with dementia that same year.

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Taking to X (Twitter) former Man United Right-back 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."

The Premier League said it 'is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest players in English football history'.

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to Sir Bobby’s family and friends, and to all at Manchester United," he added.

United sports writer Andy Mitten also wrote: "Bobby Charlton saw close friends die at Munich. He helped lead Manchester United's recovery to become English, then European champions.

"For decades the club's record goal and appearance holder, he was a World Cup winner and European player of the year too. What a life. RIP."