CHELSEA’s second top all-time goal scorer, Bobby Tambling, has died aged 84.
He held the record as top goalscorer for the club for 47 years before it was beaten by Frank Lampard in 2013.
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Chelsea legend Bobby Tambling has died at 84 Credit: PA:Empics Sport
Chelsea’s Frank Lampard with his golden boot presented by Bobby Tambling (left) in recognition of his 203 goals for Chelsea Credit: Getty
The legendary Blues player died after a long illness in Montenotte, Cork.
Bobby played as a forward for Chelsea, Crystal Palace and England in his long career.
Originally deployed on the wing, he later developed an incredible inside-right and amazing shooting power.
He made his debut at Chelsea as a 17-year-old in February 1959, and went on to smash records for the club.
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Bobby held the record as Chelsea’s top scorer for 47 years, with a huge 202 goals in all competitions – the record was beaten by Frank Lampard in 2013.
But Bobby still holds the record for Chelsea’s all-time top scorer in league competition, with 164 goals.
He was the youngest captain in Football League as he led Chelsea to promotion in 1963.
After a decade at the club, Bobby played for Crystal Palace, before moving to Cork Celtic.
Bobby held the record as Chelsea’s top scorer for 47 years, with a huge 202 goals in all competitions Credit: Getty
Ex-Chelsea manager John Hollins (right) and Bobby Tambling during the Premier League match at Stamford Bridge, London Credit: PA:Press Association
He helped the Cork Celtic capture its only League of Ireland championship in 1974.
After five seasons at Cork Celtic he was the club’s leading scorer, with more than 40 goals.
Bobby went on to play for Waterford, Shamrock Rovers and Cork Alberts.
His death was announced by Crosshaven AFC, who described Bobby as “a true Chelsea legend and an even more wonderful human being”.
A heartbreaking statement said: “Bobby leaves an enormous hole in all our lives. We are all better, kinder, and richer for having known him.
“His warmth, his wisdom, his humour and his love will stay with us forever.”
Tributes flooded in for the legendary player.
One fan called Bobby “a legend and a true gentleman both on and off the pitch”.
Bobby had Martorell’s ulcer, a leg condition, and later suffered from dementia.
The footballer is survived by his partner Valerie O’Connell and his sons, Garry and Glenn.
