Football legend Fred Talbot has died suddenly at his home aged just 87.
Stars from around the footballing globe have paid tribute to the former Cheltenham Town reserve goalkeeper, who some considered as simply the second 'best goalkeeper' in Cheltenham. During the 1947/48 season.
Former team mate Ted Stupid, a Grade Four clarinet-player as well as legendary right-back for Cheltenham and later Swindon, described the impact Fred Talbot had on football. "Fred?" he asked emotionally, "Goalkeeper? I remember a lad called Ted. I think."
Pele chipped in, as usual, describing Fred as "a wonderful man and a wonderful talent" before including him in his latest World XI best ever footballers, alongside Nicky Butt.
As well as almost playing in goal for Cheltenham Town, Fred went on to nearly play for Altrincham and Tamworth before retiring after his mum told him to go out and get a proper job.
Although unmarried, Fred leaves behind forty-two children, none of whom ever made it to the same professional standard as Fred – although several represented top flight Scottish teams, including Rangers and the European Cup-winning Celtic side of the 1960s.
Sir Bobby Charlton was unavailable for comment but his weather presenter daughter Sir Jack Charlton was. "Fred Talbot was brilliant. Me and the missus used to love watching him climb up those tall chimneys before blowing them up an' all that. Eh?"
Clubs up and down the country are expected to mark his passing with a minute's general hubbub at half-time where supporters are invited to remember Fred "in their own way".
Commercial manager Robin Bland explained, "Supporters can show their grief in many ways, be it a moment of quiet reflection, by standing up to stretch their legs or even by purchasing one of the many refreshments available on the concourse," he hawked, shamelessly. "Fred loved a Balti Pie, I believe, and there is a special offer on in his memory, 5% off the usual price making it a tasty way to remember a legend, for just £1.90."
Alternative plans are in place for Manchester United and Chelsea's visit to Wembley on Saturday, where Fred is likely to be commemorated by half an hour of senseless disruption to the game, followed by a large fine.
Fred Talbot factfile
Born: Breech position, 01/04/1920
Playing career: Truro Celtic U14s B team, Cheltenham Town (reserve), Tamworth (reserve), Altrincham (reserve)
Honours: 'Most improved player' Truro Celtic 1934, South West Counties Amateur Cup Runners-Up (non-playing member) 1947. 12 month suspended sentence, Drink Driving, 1963. Paternity suit (lost) 1947, 48, 49, 52, 54, 54, 54, 56, 58, 59, 60, 61 and 64
