Premier League to pay Mandela tribute with minute's applause at all weekend games

There will be a minute's applause in tribute to Nelson Mandela ahead of all of this weekend's Premier League fixtures, Sportsmail understands. 

Tributes have been pouring in from the sporting world in honour of the iconic South African, who died aged 95 on Thursday. 

The Premier League will pay their respects with the gesture at seven matches on Saturday, followed by two on Sunday and the Swansea versus Hull fixture on Monday.

The Football League have also asked clubs in the Championship and Leagues One and Two to do the same.
Football League chief executive, Shaun Harvey, said: 'Nelson Mandela was an inspiration to millions and his determination, courage and forgiveness marked him out as a truly great man. We are delighted to give clubs and their supporters the opportunity to pay their own tributes to Nelson Mandela and recognise his extraordinary legacy.'

Meanwhile, England World Cup hero Sir Bobby Charlton has paid tribute to Mandela.

Mandela was a keen football fan and forged a bond with Charlton following his release from prison.

The pair met frequently when Charlton visited South Africa, and the former Manchester United forward has been quick to add his own tribute to the worldwide outpouring of emotion.

'I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Nelson Mandela's passing,' said Charlton.

'My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the people of South Africa and whilst we will all mourn his death we should also celebrate his life - and what a life!

'Mr Mandela worked tirelessly all of his life for racial equality and his legacy will live on way beyond our lifetime.

'I feel blessed to have lived during his life span and privileged to have met him on a number of occasions.
'God bless my friend, Madiba.'