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Wolves legend Thomson dies, 65

Former Wolves player Bobby Thomson has died after a battle with prostate cancer at the age of 65.

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The popular ex-player, one of the club's finest full-backs of all time, passed away just before midnight in Russell's Hall hospital.

He had recovered from a strain of the disease only to suffer a relapse and had to be re-admitted to hospital last week.

He leaves a wife Jan, three children and three grandchildren.

Born in Smethwick, Thomson joined Wolves in their halcyon era of the late 1950s and went on to play 300 games for the club between 1959-69.

Thomson won eight full England caps between 1963-64 and held the record for England under-23 appearances, 15.

He also won promotion with Wolves in 1966-67 and, alongside record appearance maker Derek Parkin, is known as the club's best full-back.

A hugely popular figure, Thomson played in Wolves All Stars charity games until well into his 60s.

He attended the final game at Molineux last season when his eight-year-old grandson Dominic Thomson was the club mascot as the club celebrated promotion back to the Premier League.

He was later re-signed by legendary manager Stan Cullis for Birmingham City and also served Walsall on loan, Luton Town, Connecticut Bicentennials and Port Vale in the League before spells with Stafford Rangers and Worcester City.

As a player, Thomson was known for his speed and fans say he could run as fast backwards as he could forwards.

Thomson continued his involvement in football right to his death, coaching youngsters with fellow former Birmingham player Pat Wright in Oldbury. He even played in a Wolves All Stars charity game at Willenhall last season.

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