Man City fan's last words to friend before tragic death during Man Utd match

Manchester City confirmed on Monday that a supporter had sadly died during Sunday's Manchester Derby, with tributes now flooding in following the tragic incident

A close friend of the Manchester City fan who sadly died at the Manchester Derby on Sunday has revealed he felt 'absolutely fine' before the tragic incident.

City confirmed on Monday that a supporter had died at the Etihad Stadium following the defeat to Manchester United. The man has now been named as Lee Sparrow, who celebrated his 70th birthday just last week.

Sparrow previously served as a Sapper in the Royal Engineers and later went on to work as a Civil Servant in Work and Pensions. He regularly travelled to City games with close friend Gary Brown.

Sadly on Sunday, Sparrow suddenly collapsed on his way into the stadium from entrance K. He was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Brown has now paid tribute to his late friend.

"We got into the grounds and were going to meet some lads we know from Rochdale and Heywood. He said he was going to his seat and said 'I'll see you in a bit'," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"I had been with him all through dinner time with my nephew and my son as we had travelled from Blackpool. He was absolutely fine. I walked down the concourse and he wasn't in his seat. I knew something wasn't right, and I texted him and called him.

"Then I got a call from the hospital and they told me what had happened and that it was serious. The next thing, a steward pulled me out and said he'd passed away. I was obviously in bits. He always made you have a laugh and a good time. He was a good friend to everybody and a lifelong friend. He'd do anything for anyone."

The North West Ambulance Service confirmed they were called at 4.07pm to a 'medical incident' at the stadium. Les was rushed to Manchester Royal Infirmary, but was pronounced dead a short time later.

City's military veterans supporters group also paid tribute to Sparrow following his tragic death. They said he was 'immensely proud' of his service with the Royal Engineers.

The tribute posted on social media read: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Les Budge Sparrow, a former Sapper who was immensely proud of his service with the Royal Engineers.

"Les left us just before yesterday’s game at @mancity. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace, Les. Thank you for your service."

The club themselves said in a statement: “Manchester City are aware of the tragic news that one of our supporters passed away following a medical incident at yesterday's match. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”