Legendary French striker, Bernard Lacombe d!es at 72

Football legend, Bernard Lacombe, has d!ed aged 72.

The former striker was an icon at French clubs such as Lyon and Bordeaux during his 18-year career.

Lyon confirmed his passing with a touching statement on social media.

It read: “It is with great sadness that we learned this Tuesday evening of the death of Bernard Lacombe. All our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones, as well as to the fans of Olympique Lyonnais and football.

“Farewell Bernard, you were our legend, the greatest of all.”

Lacombe was best remembered for being a part of the French team that won Euro 1984. He also scored the fastest goal ever scored by a French player at a World Cup, netting after 30 seconds against Italy in 1978.

He was a prolific striker who scored 304 goals in 592 appearances in all competitions.

Lacombe also scored 12 goals for the French national team in 38 caps.

After hanging up his boots in 1987, he went into management and coached Lyon between 1996 and 2000.

The president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, issued an emotional message to Lecombe.

He said: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Bernard Lacombe. Bernard Lacombe left an indelible mark on French football, as a player, coach, and manager.

“He was one of the greatest strikers in the history of French football. The second-highest scorer in Division 1, he made his mark on the glorious history of Lyon, Saint-Étienne, and Bordeaux. He also shone with the French national team. His goals helped establish Les Bleus on the international stage.

“Bernard Lacombe was a major contributor to the 1984 European Championship title. He performed some of France’s greatest feats, including his goal in the opening seconds of the game against Italy at the 1978 World Cup. He was undoubtedly a source of inspiration for many strikers.

“After his remarkable playing career, Bernard Lacombe put his footballing knowledge to work for Olympique Lyonnais, his beloved club.

“With Jean-Michel Aulas, whom I am thinking of very much in these difficult moments, he formed a duo that transformed OL into a successful club.

“Deeply attached to his city, his club, and his friends, Bernard Lacombe will be deeply missed.

“The Federation will pay tribute to him. On behalf of all French football, I extend my most sincere condolences to his family and friends.”