Manchester City great Francis Lee dies aged 79

Manchester City legend Francis Lee has passed away aged 79

According to a statement from Manchester City, Lee passed away in the early hours of the morning on the 2nd of October, 2023 following a “long battle with cancer.”

Lee was a legendary figure at both Bolton Wanderers and Manchester City playing 330 times for the Sky Blues and scoring 148 goals.

Lee was a key part of the City side that would win the First Division in 1968, scoring 16 goals in the process.

Lee also received a number of caps for England, playing 27 times and scoring 10 goals for the national side. He was included in the squad for the World Cup in 1974, which took place in Mexico.

After his playing career ended, Lee moved into the business world. He started a toilet roll manufacturing company that, at one point, employed the famous comedian Peter Kay.

In 1994, Lee became the chairman at Manchester City, buying out Peter Swales’ ownership stake for £3 million. His time in charge was unsuccessful and he stepped down just four years later.

Manchester City released a statement on X saying, “Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.”