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Johan Neeskens, component of the Ajax and Netherlands groups that produced “total football” in the 1970s and a crucial team-mate of Johan Cruyff, has actually passed away aged 73, the Dutch football federation statedMonday “With Johan Neeskens, the Dutch and international football world loses a legend,” the KNVB federation stated in a declaration, including that the midfielder had actually passed away on Sunday from an undefined disease. Neeskens became part of the Ajax group that won 3 straight European Cups in the very early 1970s and was likewise a participant of the ‘Clockwork Oranje’ Dutch group that got to successive World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978.
He won 49 caps for the Netherlands.
“With his characteristic tackles, sublime insight and iconic penalties, (he) will forever remain one of the leading players that Dutch football has ever produced,” stated the KNVB.
After his having fun occupation, Neeskens participated in mentoring programs around the globe.
Known on the pitch for his uncompromising taking on, he likewise had a softer side, the KNVB stated in its declaration.
He was “a world citizen and a gentle family man who was proud of his children and grandchildren and who, until the very end, knew how to touch others with his love for football.”
The KNVB stated it would certainly hold a min’s silence at the following 2 worldwide suits versus Hungary and Germany.
Ajax composed on X: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Johan Neeskens. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
“Rest in peace, Ajax legend.”
Barcelona, where he was referred to as “Johan The Second” (after Crujff), according to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, likewise tweeted acknowledgements.
“A blaugrana legend who will forever be in our memory.”
Current Dutch instructor Ronald Koeman defined Neeskens as his “great idol”.
Playing football in the road as a kid, Koeman stated his buddies either wished to be Crujff or Dutch celebrity Willem van Hanegem.
“But I wanted to be Neeskens,” stated Koeman, mentioned by neighborhood information company ANP.
“His style really appealed to me. His fight, for example. And he was also a great penalty specialist.”
(Except for the heading, this tale has actually not been modified by NDTV personnel and is released from a syndicated feed.)
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