Football
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Ex-Aston Villa boss Ron Saunders dies at 87

Former Aston Villa manager Ron Saunders, who is regarded as one of the club's greatest ever, has died aged 87.

He helped guide Villa to promotion in his first season in charge, lifted two League Cups and steered the club to a league championship in 1980-81.

Saunders' managerial career also included stints at Villa's rivals Birmingham and West Brom. He also helped Norwich achieve promotion in 1972.

Aston Villa said: "It is the sad duty of the football club to announce that our former manager Ron Saunders has passed away at the age of 87.

"He died earlier today, Saturday 7th December, at 3pm and his family have asked for their privacy to be respected at such a difficult time."

Villa players will wear black armbands in Sunday afternoon's match against Leicester.

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