BELGIAN FOOTBALL legend Glen De Boeck has died at the age of 54.
He suffered a massive brain haemorrhage that left him in a deep coma for three days.
Glen De Boeck played 36 times for his country and was one of the most respected defenders of his timeCredit: Getty
He retired from football in 2005Credit: Getty
The former Anderlecht captain collapsed at home on Friday before being rushed to Antwerp University Hospital.
But the damage was too severe for doctors to save him, his family confirmed.
He passed away last night surrounded by loved ones and is survived by his two daughters, Bo and Caro.
De Boeck began his career as a libero with FC Boom before moving on to KV Mechelen and eventually Belgian giants Anderlecht, where he wore the captain’s armband and lifted three league titles.
He also made 36 appearances for the Belgian national team and became one of the country’s most respected defenders.
His playing career came to an end in 2005 after a series of serious knee injuries.
After retiring, he moved into coaching, first as assistant to Franky Vercauteren at Anderlecht before taking charge of several clubs, including Cercle Brugge, Germinal Beerschot, VVV Venlo, Beveren, Mouscron, KV Kortrijk, Lokeren and then Kortrijk again in what would be his final managerial role.
His death caps a year of devastating personal loss.
Earlier in year, De Boeck’s father, Louis, 80, died after a long illness.
During his , De Boeck’s mother, Louisette, collapsed from a brain haemorrhage.
Doctors later discovered she was also suffering from pancreatic cancer, and she passed away a month after her husband.
De Boeck pictured during a training session with FC LokerenCredit: AFP
Belgian is now mourning the loss of a much-loved figure whose career, life and family have been struck by tragedy in the most heartbreaking way.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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