Sir Bobby's latest life fight

SUFFOLK today sends a united message of support to former Ipswich Town boss Sir Bobby Robson after he revealed he is to undergo brain surgery to remove a tumour.

Supporters of Sir Bobby have joined to send get-well messages to the 73-year-old as the world of football comes to terms with the sporting legend's latest life fight.

Sir Bobby was taken ill while watching Ipswich Town play two weeks ago and was suspected to have suffered a stroke.

Extensive tests carried out since have revealed a small tumour, believed to be the size of a grape, which will be removed on Wednesday. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Today, former Ipswich player Kevin Beattie said he wished his former boss well.

He said: “He's a battler. He taught me how to battle and he knows what he has to do.

“He has been through so many battles I don't know what else is going to get this guy.”

Ipswich Town chairman David Sheepshanks said: “I have exchanged messages over the weekend and I'm pleased to report that Sir Bobby is in a positive and upbeat frame of mind, and knowing him as I do, if anyone can overcome this then he can.

“Typically, he was concerned to hear the latest news from the team and was pleased that Jim's side turned the corner on Saturday.”

Liz Harsant, leader of Ipswich Borough Council and a Blues fan said: “I was at the England Under 21s game last week and it was spoke about then.

“I'm dreadfully sorry as he's such a brave man and he's been through so much.

“On behalf of the council I'd like to wish him luck and we will hope and pray he will get better soon.”

Former Ipswich mayor Bill Wright said: “I've met him on many occasions and he's a very good man.

“I really wish the best of luck to him, like you would to anyone in that situation.”

Sir Bobby, currently an international consultant for the Republic of Ireland, had a golf ball-sized tumour removed from a lung in May.

In 1995 he underwent surgery after skin cancer was discovered behind his eye and three years earlier he survived bowel cancer.

He said: "The tumour is in my brain, which sounds bad, but it is in a position where it can be removed easily and it's extremely small - the size of a grape - which indicates they have caught it early.

"Apart from the funny turn at the match I have felt great, so it's a bit annoying that I have to go into hospital again.

"Having successfully fought cancer three times, I am confident of getting through this as well.”