SIR Bobby Robson launched his autobiography in his native North-East yesterday.

The former Newcastle United manager signed copies for fans at Tesco Extra, in Kingston Park, and WH Smith, in the MetroCentre.

Farewell But Not Goodbye traces the story of his rise from his humble north Durham roots to become one of the greatest managers in the history of the game.

He talks about his nomadic life in football management and his disastrous first year when he went to Canada to coach the Vancouver Royals and then to Fulham.

Sir Bobby went on to manage England, PSV Eindhoven, Sporting Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona and Newcastle, where he earned the respect of the fans at a club he has loved all of his life.

He also talks about his two battles with cancer.

Sir Bobby pays tribute to his wife, Elsie, who he has been married to for 50 years and who has been a tremendous support throughout his career.