Sir Bobby Robson has died at the age of 76. Robson had fought a long battle with cancer, but passed away at his home this morning.

"It is with great sadness that it has been announced today that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer," read a statement released by Robson's family this morning. "He died very peacefully this morning at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.

"Sir Bobby's funeral will be private and for family members only. A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby's life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.

"Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time."

During a playing career that lasted nearly 20 years, Robson played for just three clubs - Fulham, West Bromwich Albion and briefly for the defunct Vancouver Royals. He also made 20 appearances for England, scoring four goals.

After retiring he moved into management, where he enjoyed great success at club and international level. He won League titles with Porto and PSV Eindhoven in Portugal and Holland respectively, the European Cup Winners Cup with Barcelona and took England to the semi-finals of the 1990 World Cup.

Most recently he managed Newcastle, leading them to a third-place finish and a Champions League berth in 2002-03. Robson was made a Knight Bachelor in 2002.

He played for Fulham and West Brom during the 1950s and 1960s, and later went on to manage Fulham, Ipswich, PSV, Sporting Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona and the club he supported as a boy, Newcastle.