Francis Lee dead: Man City legend dies aged 79 as tributes pour in
Man City legend Francis Lee has died at the age of 79
PA
Manchester City icon Francis Lee has died at the age of 79.
The forward, who was affectionately known as Franny, passed away in the early hours of Monday morning after a battle with cancer.
Lee started his career at Bolton before moving to City back in 1967 for a then record fee of £60,000.
He spent seven years at Maine Road, scoring 148 goals in 330 appearances.
Manchester City forward Francis Lee in the City third kit challenges Phil Beal of Spurs during a First Division match at White Hart Lane
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The striker ended up joining Derby County from the Citizens and earned 27 caps for England.
Manchester City said in a statement: "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."
The treble winners added: "Francis' 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.
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Manchester City forward Francis Lee in the City third kit challenges Phil Beal of Spurs during a First Division match at White Hart Lane
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"More tributes from the club will follow in the coming days."
Bolton Wanderers also wrote: "All at Bolton Wanderers are saddened to learn of the passing of former forward, Francis Lee.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis' family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time."
Lee served as Sky Blues' chairman in 1994 but resigned four years later with the club on the brink of relegation to the third tier of English football.
He was appointed a Commander of the British Empire in 2016 for his services to charity and football.
Former Manchester City chairman Francis Lee
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Lee won several pieces of silverware at both Maine Road and the Baseball Ground.
He played a significant part in Manchester City's 1968 first division title, 1969 FA Cup victory, and 1970 league cup and Cup Winners' Cup triumphs.
Lee later helped the Rams win the first division in 1975 under Scottish manager Dave Mackay.
But the 79-year-old also earned a top accolade during his stint in Manchester.
Lee netted 10 goals against rivals Manchester United, a total not surpassed until Red Devils legend Wayne Rooney scored his eleventh goal a decade ago.
ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY JACK OTWAY
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