JAKARTA - Former captain of China's national football team Zhang Enhua, who became a hero to love while playing with Grimsby Town in England, died of heart problems following his 48th birthday celebrations.
As reported by AFP as reported by Antara, Friday, Zhang fell ill after enjoying his birthday celebrations with friends on Wednesday, said the Global Times and other media.
Zhang, who plays at center-back, was part of China's squad at the 2002 World Cup - the country's only chance to compete in the top-flight competition so far.
Zhang spent most of his career in Dalian, the city in the northeast where he was born, and won seven league titles with his hometown club.
The Xinhua News Agency remembers him as a "Chinese football legend" and Soccer News said he was "a fighter" on the pitch, yet warm and relaxed off the pitch.
Zhang's passing also made headlines in Grimsby, the fishing town on England's northeast coast where he spent part of the 2000-2001 season following a surprise move on loan for three months.
Zhang was flown in from China to solve the defensive crisis at the club which is currently holding out in England's second division competition.
He soon became a fan favorite, making 17 appearances and scoring three goals for Grimsby, before returning to China in preparation for the World Cup.
Zhang had a son who was born in Grimsby and called him Gary.
🙏 #GTFC are saddened to hear of multiple reports from China announcing the passing of former Mariner Zhang Enhua at the age of 48. The former Chinese international signed for the club on loan in December 2000, making a total of 17 appearances. Rest In Peace, Zhang. pic.twitter.com/a0hRQYjG7c
- Grimsby Town FC (@officialgtfc) April 29, 2021
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