Ex-England manager Sir Bobby Robson has admitted that he is likely to lose his battle with lung cancer “sooner rather than later”

Robson, who won the 1981 UEFA Cup with Ipswich Town, is coming to terms with the fact that doctors believe this fight won’t end in victory:

I have accepted what they have told me and I am determined to make the most of what time I have left.

I am going to die sooner rather than later. But then everyone has to go some time, and I have enjoyed every minute.

The ex-Newcastle manager, who was also in charge of clubs like Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon and FC Porto, has beaten the disease on four previous occasions. He admits that he has been lucky to survive several versions of the illness, when some people don’t make it past one, praising his medical staff for his progress:

I have been fortunate to survive this long. It is thanks to the doctors and their dedication

When Sir Bobby’s time does ultimately come, English and European football will reflect on a manager of extraordinary talent, such as buying only 14 players during his 13 years at Ipswich, preferring local players as they won the UEFA Cup and the nurturing of Ronaldo at Barcelona.

When the sad day arrives, tributes will surely flow in for this very successful manager and, overall, all-round gentleman.

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