Sir Bobby Robson RIP
Sir Bobby Robson was one of the great men of football.
If, like me, you're in your 30s, then the chances are that Italia 90 will be the most memorable World Cup. It conjured up iconic moments. England's performances during that World Cup established a Year Zero for football following years of hooliganism and stadium tragedies. England's success, orchestrated by Sir Bobby and helped on by Gazza's tears, turned the tide.
I had the privilege of interviewing Sir Bobby twice. The first time before Albion's Premier League clash against Newcastle during 2002/03 and then, face to face, at the 2007 BBC Sports Review of the Year when he was given an emotional standing ovation after being recognised for his services to football.
He wasn't just a great footballer, captain, manager or fund-raiser - he was also a gentleman.
In the press area afterwards it was clear to see how endearing and warm he is. While some of his fellow awards' winners shunned the media or kept them waiting, Sir Bobby came out and spoke to everyone. The fact that he was so obviously poorly and weak wasn't an issue.
He spoke for about half an hour and probably would have done so for longer had he not been in demand elsewhere. Sir Bobby was witty, thoughtful and spoke with great gusto about the game.
Among the questions included one about his time with Albion as a player during the late 1950s.
"One of the happiest times of my life," came the reply. This, remember, is a man who led Ipswich to the FA Cup, almost won the World Cup with England, managed his beloved Newcastle and won trophies galore with some of the biggest clubs in Holland, Spain and Portugal.
How appropriate, and poignant, that Albion should be playing Newcastle next weekend - two clubs so close to his heart.
I've never met a person who has a bad word to say about Sir Bobby. Those who knew him generally had an amusing anecdote or two.
Today is a sad, sad day for football. Please feel free to leave your thoughts below.
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Chris Lepkowski - Mail man Chris Lepkowski’s view of what’s going on at West Bromwich Albion FC.
Chris, a true legend and a total gentleman. he will be greatly missed. There is already a growing support for the idea of the Albion wearing the logo of The Bobby Robson Foundation on their shirts in place of a sponser, with a donation from sales to the charity. What do you think, and could you use your contacts within the club to progress the idea towards Mr Peace?
Chris, a true legend and a total gentleman. he will be greatly missed. There is already a growing support for the idea of the Albion wearing the logo of The Bobby Robson Foundation on their shirts in place of a sponser, with a donation from sales to the charity. What do you think, and could you use your contacts within the club to progress the idea towards Mr Peace?
Chris,
Good piece. I'm a bit disappointed that most other media have forgotten where he made his name as a player (along with Fulham).
I agree with Greg's idea. Another idea mentioned by people is to have Dire Straights (Knoflers) Local Hero played as it was a song commonly associated with him.
I hope the club take both ideas on board.
Greg,
I've passed on that idea to the club....
Chris
It's a pity your colleagues in the press and media weren't so kind to him in 1986