Former Chelsea and Leeds chairman and owner Ken Bates has died aged 94.
The London-born businessman bought Chelsea for a single pound in 1982 and became the third-longest-serving chairman in Chelsea's history, holding the position for 22 years.
He took the Blues towards the higher end of the Premier League before selling the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003 and then taking over at Leeds in 2005.
Chelsea released a statement on its website which said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club. The club sends our heartfelt condolences to Ken's wife Suzannah, the rest of his family and his friends.
"Ken's determination to fight for Chelsea when times were tough, and drive the team on to winning trophies will never be forgotten."
Under Bates, Chelsea were promoted into the top division before winning the FA Cup twice. Chelsea would also win the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, the League Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, the Community Shield during his tenure.
Vosekmpuy
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witches of doctors stop watching tiktok before you RIP
daabmopuz
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Rest in peace big man
Fawbcios
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rip Sir
Pubdikorsz
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rip
Jumachelsea
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rest in peace boss thank you for holding our club and selling it to the best owner in the world Roman Abramovich thank you for that you will always be remembered fondly by Chelsea fans all over the world including me thank you sir Ken Bates
Yeeaclrsz
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RIP KEN BATES. CHELSEA FAMILY WILL TREASURE YOU FOREVER. THANKS FOR SAVING OUR CLUB AND LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR ALL THE SUCCESS. ROGERS IN 🇺🇬
chembahassan
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rip
mipabeklpt
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rip big man
Ruaakmntuy
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rip
Biodilmnyz
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Rip big boss 💙
wenbimnpt
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respect 🫡
hinbelnrtz
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RIP sir.
biuaeimpsz
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😭😭😭
noubceoprt
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all glory to almighty God
Oluboss999
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rest in peace
giddyoo
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rip mai-nega