Malcolm Glazer, owner of Manchester United, dies

The owner of football club Manchester United died this morning at the age of 85.

Malcolm Glazer's death was announced on the National Football League's Tampa Bay Buccaneers website, which is also owned by him. He leaves behind his wife, six children and 14 grandchildren.

His health has deteriorated since he suffered two strokes in 2006.

The Glazer family famously bought Manchester United in 2005 for £790 million (S$1.6 billion) in a deal that plunged the football club into debt.

Despite this, the club has enjoyed success by winning five Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League.

Glazer boys taking control

Since their father's stroke, the younger Glazer boys - Joel, Bryan and Ed - have taken over running both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United.

This includes the hiring and subsequent firing of David Moyes, and the hiring of Louis Van Gaal as Moyes's replacement.

Club statements

Perhaps owing to his unpopularity with the club's supporters, Manchester United announced the death in brief 3 paragraph statement.

In contrast, Tampa  Bay Buccaneers paid tribute to him in a 12-paragraph long statement which paid tribute to his business achievements and his leadership which they credit for infusing "...his team and employees with the determination and dedication to be the best in the NFL."

The family also announced that they will hold a private funeral service and asked that any flowers, donations be made to the All Children’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, and Shriners Hospitals for Children in Tampa, Florida.

Source: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Manchester United , Daily Mail.