Chelsea have confirmed the death of legendary goalkeeper Peter Bonetti.
The 78-year-old had been suffering with a long illness before his passing, a club statement revealed.
Chelsea FC released a statement, thus: “Our former goalkeeper had been suffering from long-term illness. All at Chelsea wish to send our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Peter’s family and friends.”
“Bonetti was a goalkeeping superstar of the 1960s and 1970s. Small for his position on the pitch but with an aura of glamour, he was technically innovative and incredibly plucky.
“The Cat, as he was widely known, was the reassuring security among many mavericks in a golden era for Chelsea.”
Bonetti made 729 appearances for Chelsea and is rated as one of the finest goalkeepers to have featured for the club. He represented England and was included in the infamous 1966 World Cup winning side.
“Peter Bonetti’s position in the pantheon of Chelsea footballing gods is unassailable,” Chelsea’s statement continues. “He was the Cat who broke the mould, defied the odds, drew the gasps, earned the cheers and got the cream. All in front of an adoring Stamford Bridge.”