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Former national footballer S Anthonysamy dies at age 51

SINGAPORE – Former Singapore international footballer S Anthonysamy has died on Thursday (Oct 6) after complications from a chest infection. He was 51.

Ex-Woodlands Wellington midfielder S Anthonysamy had been paralysed from the neck down since a freak accident during a pre-season match in September 1996. TODAY File Photo

Ex-Woodlands Wellington midfielder S Anthonysamy had been paralysed from the neck down since a freak accident during a pre-season match in September 1996. TODAY File Photo

SINGAPORE – Former Singapore international footballer S Anthonysamy has died on Thursday (Oct 6) after complications from a chest infection. He was 51.

The ex-Woodlands Wellington midfielder - who had been paralysed from the neck down since a freak accident during a pre-season match in September 1996 – had been warded in Singapore General Hospital since last Friday (Sept 30).

A speedy winger for the Rams during his playing days, Anthonysamy is survived by his wife Keralin.

Former Woodlands team manager R Vengadasalam paid a glowing tribute to a player (above, second row, second from right) whom he described as “inspirational”.

“I am very saddened by his passing but he was truly inspirational in the way he kept fighting all the way after his accident back in 1996,” the veteran football administrator said.

“Everyone looked up to Anthony when he was playing for Wellington FC in the National Football League, and then with Woodlands Wellington in the S.League.

“He was always very jovial, and he was always lifting the mood of the dressing room with his singing. He loved to sing along with our team masseur.”

Just 1.62 metres-tall, the diminutive Lions footballer was enjoying a good career for club and country until tragedy struck on Sept 3, 1996.

Playing for Woodlands in a pre-season friendly against Malaysian side Selangor, Anthonysamy fell while challenging for the ball against an opponent, who landed his full weight on the Singaporean. He suffered two fractured vertebrae near his neck and became paralysed from the neck down.

Despite his condition, friends said Anthonysamy remained cheerful and that demonstrated his character and determination.

“He never allowed his paralysis to get him down, and he always stayed positive after accepting his lifelong condition,” said Venga.

“He will be very much missed but he is in a better place now.”

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