Man City legend Colin Bell died aged 74 on Tuesday after short illness; Bell made 501 appearances for City over 13-year spell winning First Division, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup; City named stand at Etihad Stadium after him in 2004
Thursday 7 January 2021 10:05, UK
Pep Guardiola and Manchester City's players dedicated their Carabao Cup semi-final win over Manchester United to the late Colin Bell.
Bell died on Tuesday at the age of 74 following a short illness and City's players paid tribute to the 'King of the Kippax' ahead of the game at Old Trafford.
City's players walked out in retro shirts bearing Bell's No 8, before goals from John Stones and Fernandinho sealed a 2-0 win that booked City's place in the final, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur.
"It was for [Bell] and his family," Guardiola said. "He helped to build something special for this club and why there are many trophies in the cabinet. The legacy he provided is part of the club we now have.
"It was an incredible victory for us to beat United away and reach another final in this competition. It was for him."
Stones added: "I'd like to send our condolences for Colin Bell and his family.
"I think how we played today was a reflection of him. A great moment for us and hopefully he is looking down on us. It was a great occasion, another win against another of the top teams."
Former England international Bell made 501 appearances and scored 153 goals for City during his 13-year stay after joining from Bury in 1966, helping secure promotion to the top flight.
Bell was one of City's stand-out players as they edged out Manchester United to win the First Division title in 1968.
FA Cup success followed in 1969 as well as two more trophies in 1970 - the League Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup, with Bell finishing as the club's top scorer on three occasions.
Bell's former team-mate Mike Summerbee shared his memories of the club great in a touching tribute.
"I am devastated to hear of Colin's passing. He was more than just a team-mate and an incredible footballer, he was wonderful human being and a true friend," he said on Manchester City's Twitter feed.
"When I think about him, I simply think of quality. Just sheer quality. We never singled out individuals in the team we played in, but there's no doubt in my mind that he was the greatest. The complete player, the complete athlete, the complete person.
"My condolences to Marie, Jon, Dawn and his wonderful grandchildren. We have lost someone special today."
Francis 'Franny' Lee, who along with Bell and Lee formed a formidable attacking force in one of the most successful periods of the club's history, also praised Bell.
Lee tweeted: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Colin today. Colin had outstanding all-round ability - incredible fitness, flair & eye for goal!
"A great team-mate & a true Man City legend. The Colin Bell stand will forever remind us of his immense contribution on and off the field."
Former City captain Vincent Kompany tweeted: "So very sad to hear Colin Bell's passing. Heard all about The King! A true Manchester City legend.
"This man was on another level, if only I could have seen him play. Incredibly kind and humble when I met him."
City players past and present also paid their tributes.
