Former Liverpool goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 and the Reds have released a heartfelt message in memory of the player
Dejan Lovren and Alex Manninger of Liverpool during a training session at Melwood Training Ground
Liverpool have paid tribute to Alex Manninger after his death aged 48(Image: Getty)
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Liverpool have paid tribute to former goalkeeper Alex Manninger. The 48-year-old died after his car was hit by a train.
The Austrian spent one season at Anfield from 2016 until 2017, initially arriving to train at the club before penning a short-term deal. He hung up his gloves soon after.
Manninger also made 64 appearances for Arsenal and won an FA Cup and Premier League title in north London. He passed away on Thursday morning, with police saying the incident occurred at 8:20am local time in Salzburg, Austria, when his car was struck by a train at an unguarded level crossing in the municipality of Nußdorf am Haunsberg.
The Reds have paid their respects to their former player, with their statement reading: "Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former goalkeeper Alex Manninger at the age of 48.
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"The Austrian arrived at Anfield in July 2016 to spend the final season of his lengthy playing career as a Red. Brought in as an experienced back-up goalkeeper, he featured in two friendly fixtures and was named in the matchday squad on four occasions during that campaign.
Alex Manninger of Liverpool during a signing session after the training session at Stanford University
The Austrian spent one season as a Liverpool player(Image: Getty)
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"Manninger represented a host of clubs in Europe across two decades – including hometown side Red Bull Salzburg, Arsenal, Fiorentina, Juventus and FC Augsburg.
"He earned 33 senior caps for Austria, the first of which came in August 1999. The thoughts of everyone at LFC are with Alex's family and friends at this difficult time."
More of Manninger's former clubs have also released statements, including Red Bull Salzburg. Their tribute reads: "We mourn our former goalkeeper Alexander Manninger, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Alexander."
SV Austria Salzburg also stated: "With great dismay, we have learned of the tragic accident in Nußdorf in which Alexander Manninger lost his life.
"Alexander was from 1984 to 1996 not only a part of the Austria family, but above all a person who left his mark, both on and off the pitch.
Alex Manninger of Arsenal in action during the FA Carling Premiership match against Sunderland played at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, England
Manninger won the Premier League with Arsenal(Image: Getty)
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"In these difficult hours, our deepest sympathy goes to his family, his loved ones, and all who were close to him. The thoughts of all of Austria are with you. Rest in peace, Alexander!"
Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schöttel said: "Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch.
"His international career set standards and inspired and influenced many young goalkeepers. His professionalism, composure, and reliability made him an important part of his teams and the national team. His achievements deserve the highest respect and will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time."