Premier League tribute planned for Robson

Premier League crowds will have the opportunity to pay tribute to Sir Bobby Robson on the opening weekend of the season after it was announced a minute's applause will precede all matches.

The 2009-10 campaign for top-flight clubs begins on August 15, and clubs with big screens inside their stadiums will also show a video of Robson's career highlights.

The former England, Ipswich and Newcastle manager died last week aged 76 following a long battle with cancer, and his funeral took place yesterday.

Premier League chairman Sir Dave Richards said: "Sir Bobby Robson brought so much to the game throughout his long and successful career.

"With that in mind it is fitting that fans across the country will have the opportunity to celebrate his life, and his enormous contribution to football, with a minute's applause before each of the opening weekend's Barclays Premier League matches."

Football League clubs will also hold a minute's applause for Robson before their matches this weekend.