Fabio's tribute to 'a great man'

“Sir Bobby was a wonderful man, a real gentleman," said Capello.

“I remember very well the times I managed my teams against him. The first time being when Bobby was manager of Barcelona and I was in my first season with Real Madrid.

“Later, when he was Newcastle manager and I was with Roma we faced each other – as opponents, but always friends.

“Of course, I recall Bobby as a manager with Ipswich, but more so with England. To manage the national team for so long was a remarkable achievement, and we all remember how close he came to leading England to the World Cup Final in Italy.

“He went on to enjoy success with PSV Eindhoven, Porto, Sporting Lisbon and Barcelona before returning to ‘home’ to Newcastle.

“Earlier this year I spent some time with Bobby when he opened the new cancer treatment centre, which he worked so hard to raise funds for.

“He was a fantastic man, and loved by so many people. His spirit and courage was incredible. To fight cancer so many times really showed the strength of the man.

“All the time we spoke over a cup of coffee with his close family, his passion for football shone through. He loved the game and was extremely proud of his country and the North East region.

“I also recall the tribute dinner the LMA hosted for Bobby when he wasn’t planning to say more than a few words. In the end he stayed on the stage for a very long time, telling story after story, much to everyone’s amusement.

“It’s extremely sad that Sir Bobby has lost his final fight against cancer, but he will never be forgotten.

"He really was a great man.”

Fabio Capello
England Manager