LIAM Manning has paid tribute to Manchester United and England great Sir Bobby Charlton, who has died aged 86.

Charlton was a key member of England’s victorious 1966 World Cup team and also enjoyed great success at club level with United, who became the first English club to win the European Cup in 1968.

He made his debut for United in 1956 and went on to play 758 matches for the Red Devils, scoring 249 goals. Charlton won 103 caps for England, scoring on 49 occasions.

Oxford United head coach Manning grew up supporting the Red Devils, and paid homage to football legend Charlton after the U’s drew 1-1 at home to Blackpool.

Manning said: “It’s extremely sad news. He’s such an icon of the game with what he did for football.

“Being a Man United fan, he’s someone that I watched growing up. It’s a huge loss to the game and my sympathies are with his family.”

The U’s posted in a statement online: “Everyone at Oxford United is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton at the age of 86.

“Our thoughts are with Sir Bobby’s family and friends at this sad time.”