SIMON THOMAS choked up as he announced the sad news of Sir Bobby Charlton’s death.
The 1966 England World Cup winner passed away aged 86 today after a battle with dementia.
Simon Thomas held back tears as he confirmed Sir Bobby Charlton had died
Sky SportsHe announced the news just after 4pm on Soccer Saturday[/caption]
GettyThe footballer was a legend for Manchester United and England[/caption]
And with the news breaking at 4pm, Thomas told Soccer Saturday viewers at half-time during the afternoon’s matches.
The Sky Sports presenter was visibly emotional as he confirmed the passing of the football icon.
He said: “It’s one of those moments that you kind of knew was coming at some point but it is the moment that has so sadly arrived in the last few minutes.
“It’s a statement that comes from the family of the Manchester United, the England legend Sir Bobby Charlton.”
Thomas then read out the family statement.
Charlton’s family said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning.
“He was surrounded by his family. His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him.
“We would request that the family’s privacy be respected at this time.”
Thomas also referenced the “great” Charlton’s exploits for the Three Lions, including 49 goals in 106 caps.
The presenter then mentioned his Manchester United career, which included 758 appearances, the 1968 European Cup and surviving the Munich Air Disaster aged 20.
Charlton was diagnosed with dementia – the illness his brother Jack also suffered from – in late 2020.
Thomas added: “In the last few moments, so sadly but not unexpectedly, a huge huge loss to the world of football.
“We have seen an absolute giant, a true giant of the game departs football’s stage. A simply magical, wonderful player. A wonderful man as well.”
Pundits Paul Merson and Clinton Morrison were among the first to give their reactions to the tragic loss of a footballing hero.
Merson said: “In football terms, ‘legend’ is used loosely but Sir Bobby Charlton was an absolute legend.
“He is one of the all-time greats of English football, no doubt about it. He is a legend.
“I never heard anyone say a bad word about the man ever.”
Morrison added: “I echo Merse’s words, he’ll be sorely missed. I send thoughts and prayers out to his family because it’s a sad time.
“What a footballer, what a human being, what a gentleman.”
Fellow Soccer Saturday Tim Sherwood added: “Such an inspiration for so many at that great football club, Manchester United.
“He always had time for people, a wonderful person who will be sadly missed.”
And tributes poured in on social media for the Manchester United and England legend immediately.
PAThe legendary player had a battle with dementia[/caption]
GettyCharlton continued in his work as an ambassador for the Red Devils[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
