The Prince of Wales has described Sir Bobby Charlton as “a true great who will be remembered forever” in a personal message on social media.

William, who is president of the FA, praised the England star for his contributions to sport following his death at the age of 86.

Sir Bobby was a key member of England’s victorious 1966 World Cup team and also enjoyed great success at club level with Manchester United, who became the first English club to win the European Cup in 1968.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, William said: “Sir Bobby Charlton. First Division Champion. European Champion. World Champion. Gentleman. Legend. A true great who will be remembered forever. Thank you Sir Bobby. W.”

Sir Bobby was knighted in 1994 for his services as an ambassador for football.

At the time he insisted that everyone would still call him plain “Bobby”.

“Everybody calls me Bobby and that won’t change,” he told The Independent.

He added: “I am pleased for my wife and family and the club and the game.

“Football gets pilloried now and again and if there is a bright spot like this, it is very nice.”