SIR Bobby Robson was today carrying on with his busy life as usual - despite claims he is losing his battle with cancer. Speculation regarding the former Ipswich manager's health has mounted after he was reported as saying he “would die sooner rather than later”.

SIR Bobby Robson was today carrying on with his busy life as usual - despite claims he is losing his battle with cancer.

Speculation regarding the former Ipswich manager's health has mounted after he was reported as saying he “would die sooner rather than later”.

However, the 75-year-old has moved to reassure his supporters that, although his illness is terminal, he is continuing to fight it with his trademark determination.

A statement issued by his agent, Jane Morgan, confirmed: “Although Sir Bobby is on the record as saying his cancer is terminal, he does not know how much time he has, nor do his doctors.

“Sir Bobby is carrying on with his busy life and fighting his illness with his usual fortitude, undergoing treatment from time to time.”

Considered by many as the grandfather of the English game, Sir Bobby is held in high regard in Suffolk, where he cut his teeth as Ipswich's manager in the club's glory years of the 70s and 80s.

So admired is he that Town supporters - backed by The Evening Star - are calling on Ipswich to rename Portman Road's North Stand in his honour.

In little more than a week, nearly 1,800 names have been added to an online petition, while The Star has also received dozens of petition slips which were printed in Saturday's paper.

An online poll at www.eveningstar.co.uk has also found overwhelming support for the idea, with 89.5 per cent backing the move.

Sir Bobby was granted the freedom of the borough of Ipswich during the celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of Town's FA Cup victory in May.

Do you think the North Stand should be renamed in Sir Bobby's honour? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk