Man City unveil statue to Colin Bell, Francis Lee & Mike Summerbee outside the Etihad

Manchester City have unveiled a permanent statue to former players Colin Bell, Francis Lee and Mike Summerbee.

The trio were the star names of the City side that won four major trophies between 1968 and 1970, including the final First Division title prior to the Abu Dhabi era. To honour their incredible achievements, City announced last week that a statue would be built by world-renowned architect David Williams-Ellis and installed outside the Etihad Stadium.

It was revealed publicly for the first time on Tuesday morning hours before the Champions League match against RB Leipzig, the first opportunity fans will get to see the 14.5 foot bronze statue.

“This statue honours three players who are unquestionably City legends and have deservedly earned a special place in the history of the Club and hearts of the whole City family,” said chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

The artwork, which is situated at the west side of the stadium, also features a bronze plate inscribed with the names of all 29 players who contributed to the from 1968-1970.

“This is a truly special moment for me and my family, Summerbee said as the statue was unveiled. “I joined Manchester City in 1965 and it is the best decision I could have possibly made. Fifty years later, I am still here, still treated with such respect.

“I feel incredibly lucky to be recognised in this way, amongst friends whose contribution to our history this club never forgets, despite the amazing success we have enjoyed in recent years. It is an honour to be part of this extraordinary club.”

Speaking on behalf of his late father Colin, Jon Bell said: “This football club meant so much to my father. He gave so much to Manchester City, not just throughout his playing career but beyond it into his later life.”

For Jonny Lee, son of Francis, who passed away last month, the timing of the statue’s unveiling is particularly poignant. “My father enjoyed the most successful period of his career at Manchester City and to see that legacy immortalised in this way is so meaningful to his whole family,” he said. 

“We only said goodbye to him in recent weeks and it was important to us that the club was at the centre of that. The supporters gave him the most beautiful send-off and to follow that up with such a permanent tribute is everything he could have hoped for.”

The statue denoting City’s famous triumvirate follows the previous sculptures of Vincent Kompany, Sergio Aguero and David Silva, which also stand outside the Etihad stadium.