Online Reporter
PHIL Foden pays a personal tribute to Ricky Hatton as he visits the boxing hero’s family.
The Manchester City ace left the shirt he wore in the derby with United hours after avid supporter Ricky was found dead aged 46.
Foden, in his training kit, arrived unannounced with partner Rebecca Cooke.
As well as the signed shirt, he left a bouquet.
A message read: “There is only 1 Ricky Hatton. Rest in peace, Phil”.
On Tuesday, a source close to the Hatton family said:
“Phil came round very quietly — no fanfare, just to pay his respects. The whole family was bowled over by the gesture, and the manner that Phil did it.
“Ricky would have been so proud.”
After City’s 3-0 win, Foden told Sky Sports: “It was for him and his family and for the people suffering right now. The lads gave everything.”
People’s Champion Ricky, a dad of three, was discovered at his £1.75million home in Gee Cross, Gtr Manchester, on Sunday morning by his manager.
The pair had been due to fly to Dubai ahead of a promo day for an upcoming exhibition fight.
Ricky’s family said in a statement: “He was excited for the future. His bag was packed ready to go.”
Hatton’s brother Matthew thanked well-wishers and wrote: “I hope he’s found the peace that eluded him in life.”
Hatton claimed world titles at both light-welterweight and welterweight, winning 45 of 48 fights . —Sun
