Former QPR and England forward Stan Bowles dies aged 75 after Alzheimer's battle

Former QPR star Stan Bowles has passed away at 75 following a brave battle with Alzheimer's. Starting as an apprentice at Manchester City, Bowles enjoyed a great career that saw him also play for Fourth Division Crewe, Carlisle and Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough.

However, it was his spell at QPR that made him a club legend. Bowles joined QPR in 1972, making a massive 315 league appearances and scoring 97 goals over seven seasons. The standout period was the 1975-76 season, where Bowles' performances helped QPR finish second to champions Liverpool.

QPR expressed their sadness saying: «It is with a heavy heart we have learned that QPR icon Stan Bowles sadly passed away this evening (Saturday), aged 75.» The club added: «All our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace.»

Despite being one of England's finest talents, Bowles won just five England caps — frustratingly small given his abilities. His only international goal came against Wales at Ninian Park in 1974.

Bowles ended his football career at Brentford in west London and retired in 1984. He then became an after-dinner speaker, a pundit, and wrote a betting column. His autobiography in 1996 revealed his drinking, womanising and gambling during his playing days.

When he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, Bowles moved back to Manchester to be cared for by his eldest daughter, Andria.

In 2017, QPR hosted a benefit match in honour of Bowles. They played against Bournemouth to help raise funds for his ongoing care.