Supporters of Wayne Rooney’s Birmingham City and Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough pay classy tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton

Both sets of supporters in Middlesbrough’s Championship match against Birmingham City provided a spontaneous round of applause after Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing was announced in the stadium.

Wayne Rooney was managing his first Blues game against former Manchester United teammate Michael Carrick when the sad news was delivered. Both joined in the applause as an image of Sir Bobby was shown on the big screens at the Riverside Stadium.

The family of the United icon confirmed his passing on Saturday afternoon. A statement from Sir Bobby's family said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning.

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"He was surrounded by his family. His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family's privacy be respected at this time."

Rooney surpassed Sir Bobby’s England 49-goal record in 2015 and the great man presented the striker with an accolade in 2017 for breaking his record of United goals.

Charlton scored 249 times in 758 appearances for the club, winning the European Cup with United in 1968. He also, of course, lifted the 1966 World Cup with England at Wembley.

A statement from Manchester United read: "Manchester United are in mourning following the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club.

"Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world. He was admired as much for his