Norwich lead Bond tributes

Norwich will pay tribute to former manager John Bond before Wednesday night's Capital One Cup tie against Doncaster at Carrow Road, after he passed away aged 79.

Bond began his managerial career with Bournemouth. However, it was at the Norfolk club during the mid-1970s where Bond developed into one of the game's most colourful characters, taking Norwich back up into the top flight and on to the 1975 League Cup final, which they lost to Aston Villa.

The Canaries said in a statement: "Norwich City Football Club is saddened to learn of the death of former manager John Bond at the age of 79. During his tenure he brought players such as World Cup winner Martin Peters to Norwich City, which helped trigger an exciting brand of attacking football at Carrow Road."

It went on to say: "Everybody at Norwich City Football Club would like to send their sincere condolences to John's family and friends.

"There will be an opportunity for Canary fans to remember John at Carrow Road at tonight's match with Doncaster Rovers, where his considerable contribution to Norwich City Football Club will be acknowledged prior to kick-off. Both teams will also wear black armbands as a mark of respect."

The former West Ham defender went on to manage at Manchester City, whom he guided to the 1981 FA Cup final against Tottenham, which they eventually lost on a replay with Ricky Villa claiming a famous winner.

Manchester City also paid tribute to Bond, with City club ambassador and former player Mike Summerbee telling BBC Radio Manchester: "I played for Swindon against him when he was at West Ham. We had some wonderful times off the field. He was such a lovely man and it's a very sad day."

Bond had also played for Torquay, and after leaving Maine Road in February 1983 enjoyed spells in charge of Burnley, Swansea, Birmingham and at Shrewsbury.

Howard Wilkinson, chairman of the League Managers' Association, paid tribute to Bond. He said: "It is an extremely sad day for all his family, who have lost one of the few remaining people who spent their lives working mostly in the old Football League. John was a real character with a great sense of humour and presence. He will be sadly missed."

Former England international and Manchester City chairman Francis Lee also added his condolences. Writing on Twitter, Lee said: "Sorry to hear the sad news about John Bond. Top player, manager and coach. A sad day for Jan, Kevin and Toni. A great guy!"