13 Years Ago Today, Sir Bobby Robson Had His Final Public Outing And It Was Emotional
13 years ago today, a tribute match for the late Sir Bobby Robson was played at St James' Park in what was a final public appearance for the great man.
It was a rematch of the World Cup semi-final at Italia 90', as England took on Germany.
A number of players who played in that iconic game were involved, alongside other legends with connections to Sir Bobby and a slew of celebrities.
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It was a beautiful and emotional spectacle, with Tenors Unlimited, a three-piece opera group, singing both national anthems as well as belting out Nessun Dorma to mark that memorable night in Turin.
Sir Bobby was really ill at the time but being the man that he is, still made the effort to shake everyone's hand when he was wheeled onto the pitch in his chair.
13 years ago today:
— A Funny Old Game (@sid_lambert) July 26, 2022
Sir Bobby Robson made his last public outing, at an England vs Germany Legends match in his honour.
A few days later he left us. Those final words about Gazza will bring a tear to your eye...pic.twitter.com/oNCTQOdPEq
He was presented with two prestigious honours: a Lifetime Achievement Award and the Emerald UEFA Order of Merit award.
Because he was so weak and fatigued, he wasn't able to fully appreciate England's 3-2 comeback victory but said he enjoyed the game when asked by his son, Mark.
11 years ago today, Sir Bobby Robson made his final public appearance. Wonderful picture of Sir Bobby and Wor @alanshearer by @owenhumphreys1 pic.twitter.com/PToyl36ZIR
— ToonTalk (@Newcastle_FC) July 26, 2020
He then famously quipped "How did Gascoigne play?" - something that had 'Gazza' tearing up when they told him as part of an ITV documentary.
He passed away on 31 July, less than a week after the game, at the age of 76 after a brave battle with lung cancer.
Robson was a father figure to so many of his players and they still have fond memories of playing under him.
When BBC showed footage of the 1990 World Cup, it really got to Gary Lineker.
"Don't know, I think I have something in my eye," said the former England striker when the camera cut back to him, fighting back tears. "Bobby, bless him."
Robson gave Lineker his England debut back in 1984 and coached him for the national team all the way through until that semi-final in 1990.
His legacy still lives on today through the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, a cancer research charity which continues to raise millions.
Topics: Sir Bobby Robson, Newcastle United, England, Italy, Paul Gascoigne
Josh Lawless