Alton Meiring dead at 48: Ex-South Africa footballer who played against England ‘stabbed to death’ as club pay tribute

FORMER footballer Alton Meiring has passed away aged 48.

Reports in South Africa state the ex-striker was stabbed to death.

After hanging up his boots in 2012, Meiring worked as a coach at amateur side Luso Africa FC.

The club confirmed the sad news in a statement that read: “It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of coach Alton Meiring.

“He has been a great supporter of the club and has helped out multiple teams over the last few seasons, from juniors to seniors and even our ladies’ team.”

Tributes from fans also flooded in, with one saying: “Rest in peace Alton.”

Another added: “A deadly striker in his prime. May his soul rest in peace.”

A third commented: “Rest well king, what a gent.”

Meiring won two international caps for South Africa in 2006.

He played for the likes of Cape Town Spurs, Mamelodi Sundowns, Manning Rangers and Golden Arrows during his career.

And he scored for seven different clubs in the South African top-flight.

While on the books of Platinum Stars, Meiring featured against England in a pre-World Cup friendly.

The Three Lions won 3-0 with the goals coming from Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe and Joe Cole.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk