Finally, Bobby Robson has been knighted for his services to football. He knighthood was announced in the Queens birthday honours list in June 2002. No one will argue that this elder statesmen of English football doesn't deserve the award. Our congratulations go to Sir Bobby and Lady Robson.

As a player, Sir Bobby Robson played for Fulham, West Brom, Vancouver Royals (Canada) and England (20 caps, 4 goals).

However, it is a manager that he is best known making a lasting impression where ever he has been. He began his management career at Fulham but was sacked in 1968. Ipswich appointed him 2 months later and he led them from being a small backwater club in England to become one of the most feared sides in Europe. Sadly, for him (and us fans), his talents were not rewarded with the number of trophies they deserved - 1 FA Cup, 1 UEFA Cup and 2 League Runner Up.

In 1982, his country called for him and he went off to manage England. Of the 95 games Sir Bobby was in charge for, he won 47, drew 30 and lost just 18. The highlight was taking England to the World Cup semi-final where they lost a penalty shoot-out to Germany. This was the furthest England had progressed in the tournament on foreign soil.

After the England job, Sir Bobby took his talents to Europe and managed PSV Eindhoven, Porto and Barcelona. He is now back at Newcastle Utd and the Robson magic is working as the Toon Army are flying high in the Premier League.

Sir Bobby turned 70 in February 2003 but still has the enthusiasm of a teenager for the game we all love.

Outside Ipswich Town's Portman Road, there is already one statue erected of for Ipswich and England manager, Sir Alf Ramsey. It has now been joined by a statue of Sir Bobby half away down Portman Road.