'A world citizen': Football mourns loss of Dutch legend and former Socceroos assistant Johan Neeskens
Dutch football legend and former Socceroos assistant coach Johan Neeskens has died aged 73.
Neeskens joined the Socceroos coaching staff in 2005 under then-coach Guus Hiddink as the squad prepared for the following year's FIFA World Cup in Germany.
The Socceroos would go on to make it to the round of 16, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Italy in a match that included a controversial red card for Marco Materazzi.
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Socceroos assistant coach Johan Neeskens hugs Harry Kewell and Tim Cahill after the final group match against Croatia at the 2006 World Cup. The Age
In a statement, Football Australia said Neeskens' "tactical expertise and calm leadership helped elevate the team's performance".
"Johan Neeskens was a true footballing legend, not only for his exploits on the field but for the influence he had as a coach," chair Anter Isaac said.
"His contribution to the Socceroos' success at the 2006 World Cup was immense, and his ability to connect with players and staff alike made him a valued and respected figure within our national team.
Guus Hiddink and Johan Neeskens during a Socceroos training session ahead of the 2006 World Cup. Getty
"His passing is a great loss for the football world, we are deeply saddened, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched."
Neeskens died on Sunday (AEDT) of an unspecified illness.
As a player, Neeskens was a part of the Oranje and Ajax sides that are credited with introducing the "total football" concept to the world – essentially where any player can replace any other player in any and all positions on the field.
He played in two consecutive World Cup finals in 1974 (2-1 loss to West Germany) and 1978 (3-1 loss to Argentina).
He made 49 international appearances. He also made 124 starts for Ajax, 140 for Barcelona, and 94 for the New York Cosmos.
The Dutch football association described him as a "legend" on and off the pitch.
Neeskens scores from the spot for the Netherlands against West Germany in the 1974 World Cup final. AP
"With his characteristic tackles, sublime insight and iconic penalties, (he) will forever remain one of the leading players that Dutch football has ever produced," a statement read.
"(He was) a world citizen and a gentle family man who was proud of his children and grandchildren and who, until the very end, knew how to touch others with his love for football."
The Oranje have two upcoming friendlies against Hungary and Germany. A minute's silence will be observed for both.
