World mourns Puerta passing

THE football world is in mourning following the death of Sevilla wing-back Antonio Puerta.

The 22-year-old Spain international died yesterday afternoon following the irreversible injuries caused by the prolonged cardiac arrest he suffered on Saturday.

The Spanish Football League issued a statement which read: “The Spanish Football League (LFP) sends its condolences to the family of Antonio Puerta, to Sevilla Football Club and to their fans for the sad news of the player’s death.

Spanish champions Real Madrid were among the clubs that have expressed their condolences.

“Real Madrid wishes to express its profound sorrow for the death of footballer Antonio Puerta.

Sevilla’s arch rivals Real Betis also issued a statement. Betis owner Manuel Ruiz de Lopera said: “Our thoughts are with Sevilla Football Club, with the player’s family and with the player, who I am sure will be in heaven.”

Sevilla, who were set to play a Champions League qualifier against AEK Athens in Greece last night, are currently travelling back to Spain with the game having been postponed.

Spain coach Luis Aragones was deeply saddened by the news of Puerta’s death.

Under Aragones, Puerta made his debut with the senior national team on October 7 2006 and was set to have a promising future for club and country.

“At this time I have no choice but to join his family in their pain,” said Aragones. “Above all was the human quality of Antonio.”

Athletic Bilbao and former Sevilla coach Joaquin Caparros was equally moved.

Caparros had coached Puerta while in charge of Sevilla two years ago.

“He was a great footballer and a wonderful person with a great future ahead of him,” said Caparros.