The 26-cap international footballer, who was a regular in the Champions League during his playing days, has passed away, a heartbreaking statement has revealed.
Paraskevas Anzas dies at the age of 49 (Image: Getty Images)
Former Greece international Paraskevas Antsas has passed away at the age of 49 after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is the most common form of motor neuron disease (MND), accounting for approximately 90% of all cases of the rare, progressive disease that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
The defender was a familiar face in the Champions League during his time with Greek giants Olympiakos. Throughout his stay in Piraeus, Anzas won seven Super League titles and won the Greek Cup three times.
He also represented his country 26 times. Two of his caps came during the 2008 European Championship.
read more: ‘I put someone on the wrong side’ – England star on World Cup snubread more: Tottenham agree double transfer after Roberto de Zerbi saves club from relegation
“Olympiakos FC is saddened to say goodbye to Paraskevas Antsas, a great footballer who graced the red and white shirt with passion, strength and dignity. His presence left a strong impression on the playing field and on everyone who knew him,” his former club said in a statement.
“My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones. May the soil that covers them be light.”
Antsas started his career with Pandramaikos before moving to Xanthi. He was one of three players to share the Young Player of the Year award in 1998.
Paraskevas Anzas played against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge during his time at Olympiakos (Image: Getty Images)
Following that summer, a transfer to Olympiakos was decided, and the brightest period of his football career arrived. Antzas abruptly retired in 2003 for family reasons.
However, the defender soon had a change of heart and signed up for local club Doxa Drama. Despite his performance in qualifying, he missed out on a place in the Euro 2004 squad when Greece surprised the world by lifting the trophy.
He then embarked on his second playing career with the Piraeus club in 2007. Antzas permanently ended his playing career in 2009, confirming his retirement in a statement on Olympiakos’ website.
Join us on Facebook! For the latest news, analysis and more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page
Tributes are currently pouring in for the star across social media. It read: “This hurts. Probably one of the most underrated players in modern Greek football. An incredible centre-back. Rest in peace.”
A second person said: “Sad news. Rest in peace Antsas. Thoughts and prayers are with the family.”
Another added: “We are living in an unbelievable situation. I can’t believe it. He was an idol at Olympiakos and he was so young. It’s really, really, really disappointing.”
Watch the Champions League on TNT Sports
£30.99
TNT Sports
Click here for TNT Sports
The UEFA Champions League is back on TNT Sports. Fans can watch every game on the TNT Sports Prime video channel. Your monthly subscription also includes some Premier League and FA Cup matches.
