Former Indian national team midfielder M Prasannan passed away in Mumbai on Thursday. He was 73.
Prasannan made his debut against the erstwhile Republic of (South) Vietnam on August 9, 1973, in the Merdeka Cup, in Kuala Lumpur. He went on to play two internationals for India, and scored in both of them.
On the domestic level, Prasannan represented Goa and Maharashtra in the Santosh Trophy. He had also played for Dempo SC in club competitions winning the 1971 Goa League with the club.
After his retirement, Prasannan completed a coaching course at the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Bangalore. And later coached Maharashtra and made them runners-up in a Santosh Trophy tournament.
He is survived by his wife Asha and sons Shanod and Sooraj.
Meanwhile, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) condoled his demise.
AIFF President Praful Patel, said in his condolence message, “It is devastating to hear that Prasannan is no more. His contribution to Indian Football can never be forgotten. I share the grief.”
AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das said, “Mr. Prasannan was a very talented midfielder who played with repute at the International and domestic level. My condolences to his family. We pray for his soul to rest in peace.”
Patel also took to Twitter and wrote: "Deeply saddened by the demise of former Indian National team midfielder Mr. M. Prasannan. His contribution to @IndianFootball can never be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief."
