Francis Lee dead: Man City legend passes away aged 79 after long cancer battle

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anchester City have confirmed the death of club legend Francis ‘Franny’ Lee.

The Premier League champions announced in a statement on Monday afternoon that the former England striker had passed away aged 79 following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Lee is an icon at City, having scored 148 goals in 330 total appearances for the club during a successful seven-year stint between 1967-74, forming part of their famous triumvirate alongside Colin Bell – who died in 2021 – and Mike Summerbee.

He won a glut of major silverware including a First Division title, the FA Cup, League Cup, Charity Shield and UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup during his time at Maine Road.

Lee also won the First Division title with Derby after leaving City and began his career at Bolton, later scoring 10 goals in 27 senior international caps with England between 1968-72.

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He later became a successful businessman and was City chairman between 1994-98, also having a spell as a racehorse trainer.

Lee is survived by his wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny and Nik.

City’s statement 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.”

More to follow