Ken Bates, colourful and controversial former Chelsea chair, dies aged 94

• Bates oversaw eventful 21-year period in club’s history
• His subsequent ownership of Leeds was hugely troubled

Ken Bates, one of the most colourful and controversial figures in the history of English football, has died aged 94, Chelsea have announced.

The club reported on Saturday afternoon that Bates had died peacefully in Monaco surrounded by his wife and family, adding in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club.

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