In brief
Alex Manninger, who played 64 matches for Arsenal and represented Austria 33 times, has died at 48 after a car accident involving a train. Acknowledged for his professionalism and contribution to football, Manninger's career included stints in several European leagues and notable achievements such as winning the Premier League and FA Cup with Arsenal.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train.Manninger made 64 appearances for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, winning the Premier League and FA Cup. He won 33 caps for Austria and was part of the squad that featured at Euro 2008 in his home country.Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch, said Austrian Football Association sporting director Peter Schottel.His professionalism, composure and reliability made him an integral part of his teams and the national team. His achievements deserve the utmost respect and will be unforgettable.Manninger began his career with hometown club Red Bull Salzburg and spent time with 14 teams across Europe, including Sienna, Juventus, Udinese and Augsburg. He signed a short-term deal with Liverpool as a 39-year-old in July 2016 but did not play.During his time at Arsenal, Manninger largely played second fiddle to David Seaman but deputised for the injured England keeper late in the 1997-98 season. That season Manninger helped Arsenal beat West Ham on penalties in the FA Cup sixth round and impressed in a memorable win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Manninger was named Premier League player of the month for March 1998.More to follow.
