Francis Lee: the former England, Manchester City and Bolton striker has diedFrancis Lee played for Bolton, Derby and Manchester City during his 17-year career.
He scored over 200 league goals in his career and 10 goals in 27 appearances for England and was also president of City between 1994 and 1998.Former England and Manchester City striker Francis Lee has died aged 79 following cancer.
Lee won two former First Division titles, scored over 200 career goals and represented England 27 times, scoring 10 goals during his 17-year career.
Lee began his career at Bolton, scoring 92 goals in 182 games, before moving to City for a club record £60,000.
He helped the club win the First Division title in 1968, as well as the FA Cup (1969) and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1970.
He was City’s top scorer for five consecutive seasons from 1969-70 to 1973-74, winning the club’s Player of the Year award in 1970 and the Golden Boot in 1971.
Lee moved to Derby in 1974 and helped the club win the First Division title that year. He scored twelve goals, including the winner against City.
After retiring from acting in 1976, Lee went into business, employing comedian Peter Kay in his toilet paper factory.
He became City chairman in 1994, but resigned four years later as the club faced relegation to the third tier of English football.
In 2016, Lee was appointed CBE for his services to charity and football.A city release said:
“Franny passed away early this morning after a long battle with cancer.
His wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny and Nik say he will be greatly missed and would like to thank everyone for their kind words.
“Everyone at Manchester City would like to extend their condolences to Francis’ friends and family at this very difficult time.”
“As a sign of respect, the flags around the Etihad Stadium and the City Football Academy are at half-mast.”
Bolton Wanderers posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Everyone at Bolton Wanderers is saddened to learn of the passing of former striker Francis Lee.”
The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis’ family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.
Former Manchester City striker Paul Dickov also posted“The main reason I signed for Man City was his pure love for the club and I will always be grateful to him.
Love and condolences to all his family and friends. RIP, Mr. President.
