Former England Manager remembered as league celebrates 125 year anniversary
The Football League and its clubs are supporting The FA’s Sir Bobby Robson National Football Day this Saturday – a call for people to come together in celebration of the nation’s favourite game and one of English football’s most iconic figures.The day is being staged as The Football League also marks 125 years since its formation as the world’s original league football competition in 1888.
As well as the busy league programme, 150 community focused events are being held across the country with Sir Bobby Robson Day a key part of The FA’s 150th anniversary - providing a showcase of The FA’s work at grassroots level and giving the nation the opportunity to get involved.
The day will provide a focus on every aspect of the game including women’s football, disability football, refereeing and coaching, with fans encouraged to attend a community event near them in the morning before heading along to their local Football League match in the afternoon.
Football League Chairman, Greg Clarke, said: “Sir Bobby Robson was a true Football League legend both as a player and a manager.
"We are delighted to give our support to this special day at a time when the great moments from 125 years of league football are very much in our thoughts. I strongly encourage everyone to take this opportunity to get involved in football by watching their local Football League club.”
Lady Elsie Robson, Sir Bobby’s widow, said: “I’m sure Bob would have been thrilled having a National Football Day named in his honour.
“He was always so incredibly passionate about football. He just loved it, whatever level it was being played at. He was lucky enough to play and manage at the top of the game but he was just as enthusiastic talking to youngsters about their junior club matches.”
Sir Trevor Brooking, The FA's Director Of Football Development, said: “The Sir Bobby Robson National Football Day has been created as part of our 150th anniversary celebrations to showcase the nation’s love for the game and the huge number of people who get involved in football every week, whether that’s playing, coaching, volunteering or refereeing.
"This day will shine a light on the sheer breadth of the nation’s favourite game and we hope it will encourage more people to get involved. Whether you visit one of the planned 150 events or simply head to your garden or local park with family and friends, there’s no better day to get into football.”