Sterling and Foden lead Man City tributes after death of life-long fan

Manchester City stars have sent heart-warming messages to a life-long fan, whose wife died this week.

Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden both consoled Allan Billinton, 67, who had been watching City with wife Judith for more than 30 years.

Judith, 77, was rushed to hospital from the pair's home in Lee-on-the-Solent, Hants, on April 20 after suffering a stroke.

She fought until Tuesday morning, before dying in her sleep.

Allan, who has more than 14,000 followers on Twitter as BlueMoonAllan, posted: 'My wife and best friend for over 30 years died today.

'Sadly she will not be by my side to watch City win the Premier league again.

'I would like to thank the ManCity staff, management and players who made our recent visits to the Etihad so memorable. God bless you my love.'

Phil Foden also said: 'Thoughts are with you.'

Allan said: 'You don't realise until something like this happens how loved she was.

'My phone is melting from the condolences.

'Her two favourite players were Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden, and they both took the trouble out of their busy schedule to send me a message.'