Former Manchester City and England striker Francis Lee dies at 79
Francis Lee, former Manchester City player and chairman, died following a battle with cancer, the club announced on Monday. He was 79.
Making an announcement on X -formerly known as Twitter, Manchester City wrote: «It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and chairman Francis Lee.»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, the flags were flown at half mast around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy, the club further said.
Bolton also condoled Lee's death on X.
«All at Bolton Wanderers are saddened to learn of the passing of former forward, Francis Lee.
The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis' family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.»
England said it was saddened to learn about Lee's demise.
«We are saddened to learn of the passing of Francis Lee at the age of 79. Franny won 27 caps and scored ten goals for the Three Lions between 1968 and 1972.
All of our thoughts are with his family and friends,» it wrote on Twitter.
Affectionately known as Franny, Lee played as the City forward played for Man City from 1967 to 1974. The England striker made 330 appearances and scored 148 goals during his time with the club.
Lee started his career in Bolton, his hometown, before starting his journey with Man City.
He earned 27 caps for England, scoring 10 goals and featured in the side that reached the 1970 World Cup quarter final.
After City, Lee joined Derby in 1975, leading the club to a win league title. It was during his stint with Derby, that he rose to fame following an on-pitch fight with Norman Hunter, a
