Ken Bates is credited as the man who saved Chelsea from extinction back in 1982 and owned the Premier League club for 21 years before going on to purchase Leeds United
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Ex-Chelsea chairman Ken Bates (R) looks on during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on May 21, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill Ltd/Getty Images)
Ken Bates has passed away(Image: Chris Brunskill Ltd/Getty Images)
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Ken Bates, the former owner of Chelsea and Leeds United, has died at the age of 94. Chelsea confirmed his death on Saturday, adding that Bates 'passed away peacefully in Monaco this morning surrounded by his wife and family'.
In a statement, the Premier League club said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club.
"The club sends our heartfelt condolences to Ken's wife Suzannah, the rest of his family and his friends. Ken's determination to fight for Chelsea when times were tough, and drive the team on to winning trophies will never be forgotten."
After purchasing the club for £1 in 1982, Bates is credited as the man who saved Chelsea from extinction. He sold the club in 2003 to Roman Abramovich.
The Chelsea Supporters' Trust also issued a statement which read: "The Chelsea Supporters' Trust is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Chelsea owner and chairman, Ken Bates. Ken was one of the most significant figures in Chelsea Football Club's modern history.
"Taking charge during one of the club's most difficult periods, he played a defining role in securing the club's future at Stamford Bridge and helping lay the foundations for the success that followed. His impact on Chelsea will be remembered for generations, and his place in the club's history is assured.
"The thoughts of the CST board & all our members around the globe are with Ken's family, friends and all those who knew him. Thank You, Ken."
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