Wayne Rooney pays touching tribute to Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton
Wayne Rooney has described Manchester United icon Sir Bobby Charlton as a 'legend' and a 'great human being' following the announcement of his death on Saturday.
His family confirmed in a statement that the former United and England midfielder had died at the age of 86. He died peacefully surrounded by his family.
The statement issued by the Charlton family said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family.
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"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."
A plethora of leading football figures across the globe, as well as a collection of former United players, have led tributes to the 1966 World Cup winner, including the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville.
News of Charlton's death was confirmed at 4pm on Saturday afternoon, just as most of the country's 3pm kick-offs were kicking-off for the start of the second half. In the Championship, Rooney was taking charge of Birmingham City for the very first time, facing Middlesbrough, who are managed by fellow former United star Michael Carrick, at the Riverside.
A picture of Charlton was displayed on the stadium's giant screen and both sets of supporters rose to their feet to applaud in memory of one football's all-time greats. Both Rooney and Carrick joined in with the applause.
Remembering Charlton in his post-match press conference, Rooney,
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