A statement read on behalf of Sir Bobby Robson's family said: "It is with great sadness that it has been announced today that Sir Bobby Robson has lost his long and courageous battle with cancer.
""He died very peacefully this morning (Friday) at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him.
"Sir Bobby's funeral will be private and for family members only. A thanksgiving service in celebration of Sir Bobby's life will be held at a later date for his many friends and colleagues.
"Lady Robson and the family would very much appreciate it if their privacy could be respected at this difficult time."
Robson spent 13 years at Town where he managed to bring Town's biggest success since winning the league 16 years earlier under Alf Ramsey when he secured the FA Cup in 1978, and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
After leaving Town in 1982, Robson became boss of England, and fired his country to the semi-finals of the World Cup in 1990, before losing on a penalty shoot out to West Germany, in what would prove the last match as Robson's career as England manager.
Following his departure as National team manager, Robson broadened his horizons and spent spells managing PSV, Sporting Lisbon, FC Porto and Barcelona before returning to manage his hometown club in 1999 for 5 years before being dismissed by Geordies chairman Freddy Shepherd.
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