Legendary former Town boss Sir Bobby Robson expects to end his career in football management after the Republic of Ireland's final Euro 2008 qualifier against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday. Robson has been working as a consultant with the Irish side for the last couple of years.

Robson, 74, says his current role will end now that Steve Staunton has been sacked from his job with the Republic of Ireland and says his health problems mean a new challenge is unlikely: "I'm stepping down because of Stan.

"The chances are I won't get back on the pitch again but I've got my head still and my enthusiasm.

"It depends on my health - I miss the game immensely and getting on the pitch.

"I've enjoyed the last two years - I just wish I could have done more than I have done.

"But my health took a downward turn a year ago and I've just been recovering from that."
In May, Robson discovered he was fighting cancer for the fifth time after small cancerous nodules were discovered in his lungs.

Previously Robson overcame bowel cancer in 1992 and a mouth cancer three years later. In May 2006 he underwent surgery when a tumour was found on his lung after a skiing accident. Three months later Robson had surgery to remove a brain tumour which was revealed by tests after the former England boss was taken ill at the Blues' game with Crystal Palace.

Robson, Town's honorary president, will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards on December 9th. He will be joined by members of the Town FA and UEFA Cup-winning squads as well as players from his England sides and other figures from his career as a manager and player.

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