Graeme Souness and Micah Richards lead stars at funeral of former Man City and England star Francis Lee
Francis Lee: Graeme Souness attended the funeral at Manchester Cathedral on Thursday morning
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Graeme Souness and Micah Richards were among the stars who attended the funeral of former Manchester City and England striker Francis Lee on Thursday morning.
The forward died at the age of 79 on October 2 after a battle with cancer.
Lee has been laid to rest by friends and family at Manchester Cathedral.
Souness looked emotional before the service, with the Liverpool icon wearing a black suit and tie for the occasion.
Francis Lee: Micah Richards looked smart as he attended the funeral of former Man City striker
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Richards also wore black, while the Sky Sports pundit also donned a black cap.
Former City team-mates Tony Book, Mike Summerbee and Joe Royle were also among the mourners.
One wreath that said the word 'Dad' was placed at the head of the coffin.
Another which read "Lee 7' was placed on the side.
Lee started his career in football at Bolton, netting 92 goals in 182 games to earn a huge move to Manchester City.
He joined the club for a then club-record fee of £60,000 and would end up being worth the investment.
Lee helped City win the First Division title, as well as the FA Cup in 1969 and European Cup Winners' Cup the following year.
He was the club's top goalscorer for five seasons and bagged 112 goals in total before joining Derby County in 1974.
Lee played a key role as Derby won the First Division that year before opting to retire two years later.
After hanging up his boots he ended up employing comedian Peter Kay in his toilet roll factory, having opted to turn to business.
City paid tribute to Lee after his passing by saying: "Franny passed away in the early hours of this morning after a long battle with cancer.
"His wife Gill and children Charlotte, Jonny and Nik say he will be sorely missed and would like to thank everyone for their kind words.
"Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.
"As a mark of respect, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are flying at half-mast."
Former City striker Paul Dickov wrote: "Such sad news to hear of the passing Francis Lee.
"A gentleman, proper football man with a great sense of humour.
"The main reason I signed for Man City was his sheer love for the club and will be forever grateful. Love and condolences to all his family and friends. RIP Mr Chairman."
Bolton reacted to the news with a statement that read: "All at Bolton Wanderers are saddened to learn of the passing of former forward, Francis Lee.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis' family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time."
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Francis Lee died at the age of 79 after spells at Bolton and Man City
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Lee also made 27 appearances for England, scoring 10 goals.
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