After leaving Chelsea and a short spell with Crystal Palace, Tambling moved to the Republic of Ireland, where he became a beloved figure in the Cork football scene. His impact was felt deeply at Crosshaven AFC, who released a heart-wrenching tribute to their former manager. On the social media platform X, the club shared their grief over the loss of a man they described as a "true Chelsea legend and an even more wonderful human being."
The Irish club added: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that Crosshaven AFC announce the passing of our dear friend and former manager, Bobby Tambling. His passion for football was absolutely infectious. Whether he was talking tactics, working on set pieces, or telling stories from his playing days (sometimes for the tenth time), you couldn't help but hang on every word. Bobby leaves an enormous hole in all our lives. We are all better, kinder, and richer for having known him."