FOOTBALL legend Sir Bobby Robson will be honoured tomorrow with a statue at the club where he forged his early career.

Sir Bobby led Ipswich Town to glory as manager in the 1970s and 80s and the statue is sited at the club's stadium in Portman Road.

It was commissioned by the Ipswich Town Supporters' Association, funded by Ipswich Borough Council and electricity company TXU, and has been created by sculptor Sean Hedges Quinn.

Currently manager of Newcastle United, Sir Bobby joined Ipswich in 1969 from Fulham.

During his 13-year stint at Ipswich, the team won the FA Cup in 1978 and three years later the UEFA Cup in Rotterdam.

He left the club in 1982 to take up the position of England manager.

Ipswich Town Football Club chairman David Sheepshanks said: "We're very pleased to be hosting the reception for Sir Bobby Robson, and all of our guests from the supporters' club, TXU and the borough.

"The timing couldn't be better as we celebrate not only the unveiling of the statue, but also his recent knighthood in just recognition for his tremendous achievements in football."

Sir Bobby still owns a family home in the town and is involved in charity fundraising for Ipswich Hospital where he has received treatment for cancer.

The Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Richard Risebrow, said: ''Bobby lives here in the town and still is held in high regard.

"The council is proud to be supporting this tribute, and I am sure many Ipswich people will turn out to cheer him when the statue is unveiled."