Manchester City have paid tribute to former player and chairman Francis Lee, who has passed away at the age of 79.
Lee scored 148 goals in 330 appearances for Man City and won one First Division title, one FA Cup, one League Cup, a European Cup Winners’ Cup and two Community Shields during his eight years at the club.
He was also capped 27 times by England and scored 10 goals, featuring in the 1970 FIFA World Cup.
Looking back at the impact of one of Manchester City’s all-time greats, Francis Lee 🩵 pic.twitter.com/Ln11AnoGtu
— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 3, 2023
After hanging up his boots, Lee returned to Man City as chairman in 1994 and spent four years in the role.
A Man City statement said: "A statue outside the Etihad Stadium commemorating Francis' legacy has been commissioned, as confirmed by club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak in May 2022.
"As a mark of respect, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are flying at half-mast."
It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and Chairman Francis Lee.
— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 2, 2023
Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.
Lee's career started at Bolton Wanderers where he broke into the side as a 16-year-old in 1959.
He scored 106 goals in 210 matches over eight seasons before signing for City for a then club-record fee of £60,000.
This morning our men's first team squad held a moment of silence for club legend, Francis Lee. 🩵 pic.twitter.com/BuvyZ8ckGx
— Manchester City (@ManCity) October 3, 2023
After leaving City in 1974, Lee joined Derby County and spent two seasons there before retiring.
Everyone at the Premier League sends their condolences to Man City and to Lee's family and friends during this difficult time.