Chelsea legend Bobby Tambling, 81, in hospital as Frank Lampard and players pay tribute
CHELSEA legend Bobby Tambling has been unwell in hospital this week.
The Blues legend, 81, was previously the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, before being overtaken by Frank Lampard.
Chelsea’s caretaker boss wished Tambling well in his programme notes ahead of today’s Prem clash with Nottingham Forest.
He wrote: “I want to send my best wishes to Bobby Tambling, who has been unwell and went into hospital this week.
“I have always had a great relationship with Bobby and his family, and I have huge respect for his achievements.
“He is a gentleman and we had the opportunity to speak to him at Cobham when he visited last month, which was great for everyone here.
“We’re thinking of you, Bobby – a true Chelsea legend.”
Club captain Cesar Azpilicueta also used his programme notes to wish Tambling well.
The Spaniard wrote: “We received the news this week that Bobby Tambling was unwell and in hospital and, on behalf of all the players who met him when he visited us last month, I wanted to offer all our strength and best wishes.
“He is a legend of this club and we are all thinking of him and his family at this difficult moment.”
Tambling starred for the Blues between 1959 and 1970.
The forward scored 202 goals in 370 appearances for Chelsea – winning the League Cup during his time in West London.
Tambling’s record as the Blues’ all-time leading goalscorer stood until 2013 – when Lampard bagged the 203rd of his 211 Chelsea strikes.
The two Chelsea legends have a great relationship, with Tambling having visited him at the club’s Cobham training base.
Tambling brought along his star-struck six-year-old grandson – named Frankie after the Chelsea caretaker boss.
The youngster was able to kick a ball around with Joao Felix and Christian Pulisic, with the duo having pictures taken with him, as well as Tambling.
On his trip to Chelsea’s training ground, the Blues legend told their website at the time: “It’s been an amazing day, my first time visiting Cobham. It’s an unbelievable set-up and a lot different to where we used to train.
“I loved every minute of it, seeing Frank, watching the players train and then speaking to them afterwards.
“It was brilliant to see the players playing with Frankie, it really does put a smile on my face seeing young people enjoying football.”