Sir Bobby Robson has been given the all-clear following surgery which detected and removed a suspected cancerous growth on his lung.

Robson, who has already twice successfully battled cancer, is reported to be "fighting fit" as he continues his latest recovery.

Former England manager Robson, 73, is a consultant for Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton and a Football Association of Ireland spokesman confirmed he is on the mend after the
problem was discovered during routine and unconnected surgery.

"Sir Bobby went in for an operation after a skiing accident when he suffered some damage to his ribs," the Sunday Times were told.

"During the operation, a growth was discovered on his lung and removed. The operation was a complete success. He has had a check-up and has now been given the all-clear. I spoke to Sir Bobby this morning, and he was fighting fit."