HERO TO MILLIONS

Nation mourns the passing of England's greatest footballer

- SIMON MURPHY

GEOFF Hurst led tributes after England's greatest and best-loved footballer Sir Bobby Charlton died aged 86 yesterday.

Sir Bobby, the midfield heartbeat of England's 1966 World Cup winning side, was renowned as a hero on the pitch and a gent off it.

Last night, Sir Geoff, 81 - now the last living member of the team - spoke for many when he said: "We will never forget him and nor will all of football.

"One of the true greats... he will be sorely missed by all of the country beyond sport alone."

Match of the Day's Gary Lineker who scored one goal fewer than Sir Bobby for England called him "England's greatest-ever player", adding: "He may no longer be with us but he'll have footballing immortality."

Sir Bobby's club Manchester United called him "a giant of the game" and "one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club".

David Beckham, a product of the Bobby Charlton Soccer Schools, said: "Sir Bobby was the reason I had the opportunity to play for Manchester United.

The former England captain, handed the middle name Robert in honour of Sir Bobby, added: "I will be forever grateful to a man I was named after, someone I looked up to and was a hero to many around the world... a true gentleman, family man and truly a national hero..."

Ex-United teammate Gary Neville added: "A champion on and off the pitch and a Busby Babe that paved the way for all to come at United.

And Wayne Rooney, the only man who has scored more goals than Sir Bobby for the Red Devils, described Sir Bobby as a legend, adding: "Sad day for football, sad day obviously for his family.

Sir Bobby's family said the legend, who is survived by his wife of 62 years Norma, passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning surrounded by his family. They expressed their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him.