04/12/11 20:17 CET

Sport

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Former Brazil captain Socrates died on Sunday at the age of 57.

Widely regarded as the best ever midfielder to grace the game of football, he had been in a critical condition with an intestinal infection since being admitted to intensive care on Friday at a hospital in Sao Paulo.

Two days later doctors announced his death as a result of septic shock.

He had initially been admitted suffering with food poisoning.

Socrates, who had a degree in medicine himself and was known as ‘Dr Socrates’, had been a heavy smoker and drinker even in his playing days.

The former attacking midfielder had a glittering career and even at the age of 50 still had an appetite for the game – accepting an offer to spend one-month with English non-league team Garforth Town – although he made only one appearance as a late sub.

He spent the majority of his career at Sao Paolo-based club Corinthians – He played in two World Cups, won 60 caps for his country between 1979 and 1986 and scored 22 goals for the Selecao.

More about: Brazil, Death, Football, Sport

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