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Graeme Souness and Micah Richards were among the stars who attended the funeral of former Manchester City and England striker Francis Lee on Thursday morning.
The forward died on October 2 at the age of 79 after a battle with cancer.
Lee is cremated by friends and family at Manchester Cathedral.
Souness looked emotional ahead of the service, with the Liverpool icon wearing a black suit and tie for the occasion.
Francis Lee: Micah Richards looked smart as he attended former Man City striker’s funeral
the countryside
Richards also wore a black outfit, while the Sky Sports pundit also wore a black hat.
Former City teammates Tony Book, Mike Summerbee and Joe Royle were also among the mourners.
A wreath with the word ‘Father’ written on it was placed at the head of the coffin.
Another, inscribed with the words “Le 7”, was placed on the shore.
Lee began his career in football at Bolton, scoring 92 goals in 182 games to earn a major move to Manchester City.
He joined the club for a then club-record fee of £60,000 and ultimately proved worth the investment.
Lee helped City win the First Division title, as well as the FA Cup in 1969 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup the following year.
He was the club’s top goalscorer for five seasons and scored a total of 112 goals before joining Derby County in 1974.
Lee played a key role in Derby winning the First Division that year before choosing to retire after two years.
Opting to turn to business after quitting his job, he employed comedian Peter Kay in his toilet roll factory.
The city paid tribute to Lee after her death, saying, “Franny passed away this morning after a long battle with cancer.
“His wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny and Nick say he will be greatly missed and want to thank everyone for their kind words.
“Everyone at Manchester City would like to express our condolences to Francis’ friends and family at this difficult time.
“As a mark of respect, flags are flown at half-mast around the Etihad Stadium and the City Football Academy.”
Former City striker Paul Dickov wrote: “Very sad news to hear of the passing of Francis Lee.
“A gentleman, a proper footballer with an excellent sense of humour.
“The main reason I signed for Man City was his sheer love for the club and I will always be grateful. Love and condolences to all his family and friends. RIP Mr Chairman.”
Bolton responded to the news with a statement, which read: “Everyone at Bolton Wanderers is saddened to learn of the passing of former forward Francis Lee.
“The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis’ family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.”
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Francis Lee dies aged 79 after spell at Bolton and Man City
the countryside
Lee also played 27 matches for England and scored 10 goals.
