Man City legend Francis Lee passes away aged 79

Manchester City legend Franny Lee has passed away at the age of 79 after a long battle with cancer.

Lee joined City from Bolton Wanderers in 1967 and was part of one of their greatest ever teams, playing thrilling football with Mike Summerbee and Colin Bell that saw the Blues win the First Division title in 1968, the FA Cup the following year, and then the League Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup in 1970. Lee would top the scoring charts in multiple seasons and ended up with 148 goals from 330 appearances, making him one of the most decorated players in the history of the club as well as one of the most talented.

After retiring, Lee returned to City as a hero by taking over from Peter Swales as chairman in 1994. His second stint at the club was less successful and he left in 1998 as the club were about to tumble into the third division, but Lee is still loved by so many Blues for everything given to the football club.

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A club statement read: "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."

A statue to commemorate Franny Lee alongside teammates Bell and Summerbee was commissioned to sit alongside fellow greats Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva at the Etihad, and could be unveiled later this year.