Former England, Manchester City, Derby and Bolton striker Francis Lee dies at the age of 79

Former England and Manchester City striker Francis Lee has died at the age of 79, following a long battle with cancer.

He scored more than 200 goals in a career which also saw him enjoy spells at Bolton – where he started out in the game – and Derby.

Lee collected an impressive array of trophies, including the First Division title on two occasions – once with City and once with Derby – as well as an FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup.

At international level, Lee won 27 caps for England and scored ten goals for his country.

However, it is his connection with City for which will be most remembered, having been their top scorer for five seasons on the bounce between 1969/70 and 1973/74.

While scoring goals was his first love, Lee was also a keen businessman and set up paper recycling company F.H Lee while he was still playing football.

After retirement – and with a workforce of up to 100 people – Lee turned the business into a multi-million pound asset which was sold in 2000.

Among his workers, Lee famously employed comedian Peter Kay.

Ever a football man, Lee returned to the game in 1994 as a major shareholder and chairman of Manchester City. He held the position for four years.

Following the news of his death, in tribute to “a club legend”, a statement from Manchester City 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.”

A message from England on X, formerly Twitter, read: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Francis Lee at the age of 79. Franny won 27 caps and scored ten goals for the Three Lions between 1968 and 1972. All of our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Lee was included in the 2016 New Years Honours List and was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to football and charity.