Bobby Robson diagnosed with cancer for fifth time

Bobby Robson looks up towards the stands after a training session at Lansdowne Road in Dublin, Ireland February 28, 2006. Former England manager Robson is suffering from a fifth bout of cancer, he told the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

LONDON (Reuters) - Former England manager Bobby Robson is suffering from a fifth bout of cancer, he told the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

The 74-year-old, who is a consultant to Ireland's national team, has started a six-week course of chemotherapy after doctors found cancerous nodules in his lungs.

Robson, who won 20 England caps before turning to management, coached Spanish club Barcelona, Sporting and Porto in Portugal, English teams Newcastle United and Ipswich Town, and Dutch side PSV Eindhoven. He led England to the World Cup semi-finals in 1990.

Robson has had four operations in a 15-year battle against cancer.

"Of course, it's not the greatest news I've ever had but I have fought hard throughout my life and I will continue to fight. I will battle as I've always done," he said.