Vincent Kompany pays tributes to late Man City legend Francis Lee

Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany has sent a message of condolence to the family of club icon Francis Lee, who died aged 79 on Monday after a long battle with cancer.

Lee - affectionately known as Franny - was a torchbearer in City’s most successful era, helping the Blues to the First Division title in 1968 before lifting the FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup in the following two years.

Often ending the season as top scorer, Lee tallied 148 goals in 300 appearances for City between 1967 and 1974. He also scored 10 goals in 27 England caps, also playing in the 1970 World Cup.

READ MORE: Obituary: Obituary: Francis Lee: Tenacious, skilful and brave

READ MORE: City legend Lee passes away aged 79

Tributes have poured in since his passing was announced on Monday, Kompany being one of those to share his memories of the times he met Lee. The Burnley boss wrote a social media message which said: "Saddened to hear of the passing of Francis Lee today, aged 79.

"I had the honour of meeting him and speaking to him on more than a few occasions and will cherish these moments. I would like to express my sincere condolences to the entire family and to all his loved ones. RIP."

City hero Paul Dickov, former club Bolton Wanderers and the England national team have all sent their condolences while Manchester City shared a statement shortly after the news was announced.

It 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