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Keane: A Fine Tribute - Ipswich Town News

Town manager Roy Keane felt his side put in a performance which paid tribute to Sir Bobby Robson as they defeated Real Valladolid 3-1 at Portman Road.

Keane said: "It's obviously a very sad day with the news of Sir Bobby. I think it was nice that we had a game tonight though, because it gave the supporters a chance to show their appreciation for Sir Bobby.

"It was a night of celebration in some ways and I said to the players before the game that I wanted them to go out and pay their respects by putting in a good performance and play the way Sir Bobby liked the game played. I think they did that.

"I was lucky enough to have met him on a couple of occasions. He came to the training ground when I was manager at Sunderland and apart from obviously being a fantastic manager, he struck me as a true gentleman as well."

Meanwhile, club chairman Marcus Evans has added his voice to the tributes to Robson: "I would like to send my deepest condolences to Elsie and Sir Bobby's family at this very sad time.

"I have been privileged, in the 18 months I have been involved with Ipswich, to have met Sir Bobby on a number of occasions, most recently at his golf tournament in Portugal. It always struck me how much love and admiration there was for him, not only from people in football but anyone that met him.

"Even though Sir Bobby faced his own challenges with his battle against cancer, he always made himself available and gave good, honest and friendly advice.

"He was a tireless worker for his charities and we at Ipswich will do everything in our power to continue the good work for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in his memory."

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