Goalkeeper legend Peter “The Cat” Bonetti has died aged 78.
Bonetti played more than 700 times for Chelsea and is seen as one of their greatest players.
He also played for England – but always faced stiff competition for the keeper’s jersey from Gordon Banks and Peter Shilton.
Bonetti – who stood five feet ten inches tall, small for a goalie – had been ill for some time.
He displayed amazing agility and was dubbed “The Cat” by fans.
A Chelsea statement read:
“Chelsea Football Club is hugely saddened to announce the passing today of one of our indisputably all-time great players, Peter Bonetti.
“Our former goalkeeper had been suffering from long-term illness.
“All at Chelsea wish to send our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Peter’s family and friends.
“Bonetti was a goalkeeping superstar of the 1960s and 1970s.”
One of Chelsea Football Club's greatest ever players.
Rest in peace, Peter 'the Cat' Bonetti. 💙 pic.twitter.com/OM48Dq2BXW
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 12, 2020
