Soccer

Former City boss Bond passes away

Soccer:  Norwich will pay tribute to former manager John Bond before tonight’s Capital One Cup tie against Doncaster at Carrow…

Wed Sept 26 2012 - 01:00

Soccer: Norwich will pay tribute to former manager John Bond before tonight's Capital One Cup tie against Doncaster at Carrow Road, after he passed away aged 79.

Bond — who began his managerial career with Bournemouth and led them to promotion from the old fourth division at the end of his first season in charge - took Norwich back to the top flight and on to the 1975 League Cup final at Wembley, and was one of the game’s most colourful characters.

The former West Ham defender went on to manage Manchester City to the 1981 FA Cup final against Tottenham, which they eventually lost on a replay with Ricky Villa claiming a famous winner.

“Norwich City Football Club is saddened to learn of the death of former manager John Bond at the age of 79,” said a statement from the Canaries. “During his tenure he brought players such as World Cup winner Martin Peters to Norwich City, which helped trigger an exciting brand of attacking football at

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Carrow Road.

“Everybody at Norwich City Football Club would like to send their sincere condolences to John’s family and friends. There will be an opportunity for Canary fans to remember John at Carrow Road at tonight’s match with Doncaster Rovers, where his considerable contribution to Norwich City Football Club will be acknowledged prior to kick-off. Both teams will also wear black armbands as a mark of respect.”

Manchester City also paid tribute to Bond. Former centre-half Nicky Reid, who made more than 200 appearances for the Blues and played in the 1981 FA Cup final, added his condolences.

He said: “It is well documented that we didn’t get along professionally at all times, but of course that does nothing to stop me from being extremely sad to learn of this news. I am very sorry he’s passed away and my thoughts are with his son Kevin, his sister and their mum at this sad time.”

Bond also played for Torquay, and after leaving Maine Road in February 1983 had spells in charge of Burnley, Swansea, Birmingham and Shrewsbury. He was the father of former Tottenham assistant manager Kevin Bond.