Manchester City legend and former chairman Francis Lee has passed away at 79. Lee was battling cancer and unfortunately died in the early hours of this morning.
Lee was a great force was Man City. He was once their record transfer for a fee of about £60,000 when he moved from Bolton. He played for Man City for seven years, scoring 148 goals in 330 appearances.
Lee was the club’s top goalscorer for five consecutive seasons from 1969/70 to 1973/74 and was a key player in City winning several pieces of silverware.
City won the First Division, FA Cup, League Cup, European Cup Winners Cup, Charity Shield (twice) and the Second Division during his time there.
Lee also won 10 goals in 27 caps for England.
After his playing career, Lee became a successful businessman and went on to become owner and chairman of City in 1994 in a reign that lasted four years.
In 2016, he was awarded a CBE for his services to football.
A statement from Manchester City read: “It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and Chairman Francis Lee, aged 79.
“A club legend in every sense, Francis made 330 appearances for City, scoring 148 goals.
“He won one First Division title, one FA Cup, one League Cup, a European Cup Winners’ Cup and two Charity Shields during a glittering eight-year spell as a player – a legacy that ensures his position among Manchester City’s all-time greats is secure.
“He would later return to City as club chairman in 1994, spending four years at the helm.
“Franny passed away in the early hours of this morning after a long battle with cancer. His wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny and Nik say he will be sorely missed and would like to thank everyone for their kind words.
“Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.
As a mark of respect, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are flying at half-mast.
“More tributes from the club will follow in the coming days.”
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