Imphal: Former Indian footballer Laishram Manitombi Singh from Manipur passed away on Sunday due to prolonged illness at the age of 39. He was a resident of Achanbigei village in Imphal East district.
The former Mohun Bagan captain was also part of the national team as a key player that won the LG Cup in Vietnam by 3-2 in 2002. The same year, he also played for India at the Busan Asian Games.
Post retirement, Manitombi joined Anouba Imagi Mangal (AIM), defending champion of Manipur State League champions 2015-16 season, as its coach. He is survived by his wife and an eight-year-old son.
Chief minister N Biren Singh on Monday took to his official Twitter handle and condoled the untimely demise of the former ace footballer from the state.
“Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of former India International footballer Laishram Manitombi Singh, who happens to be from my AC and known to me since his childhood days,” Singh tweeted.
Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of former India International footballer Laishram Manitombi Singh, who happens to be from my AC and known to me since his childhood days.
May his soul rest in peace in the Heavenly abode.
I also share the grief of the bereaved family. pic.twitter.com/GdMxRfS1JC— N.Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) August 10, 2020
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) also condoled the passing away of Manitombi.
AIFF condoles Manitombi Singh’s untimely demise
Read more https://t.co/a72GTPyIR5#IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/uKXsUJSpbs
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) August 9, 2020
Coincidentally, it was on August 10, 2002, where the Manipuri legendary footballer Manitombi along with the Indian football team lifted the international cup after a cap of 31 years in Vietnam.
AIFF shared the historic moment on their official Twitter handle.
#OnThisDay 1️⃣8️⃣ years ago, the #BlueTigers beat Vietnam 3-2 in the final to lift the LG Cup #IndianFootball ⚽ #BackTheBlue pic.twitter.com/bWkHMVguRT
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) August 10, 2020
