Akeem Adams, Trinidad and Tobago Defender, Dies in Hungary

Akeem Adams, a Trinidad and Tobago international who joined Hungarian side Ferencvaros in August, has passed away at the age of 22, the club have confirmed.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of FTC’s player, Akeem Adams,” the Budapest outfit said in a statement on its official website. “The medical staff of Varosmajor Heart Clinic and Ferencvarosi Torna Club share the pain of the loss.”

Adams, who played at a handful of clubs in Trinidad and Tobago before going on trial at Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer just over a year ago, made his full debut for The Soca Warriors as a 16-year-old in 2008. He also represented the Caribbean nation at both the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup and 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

A central defender with some experience at left-back, he had made six appearances for Ferencvaros before suffering a heart attack on September 25 that required a trio of life-saving operations before the amputation of his left leg to “alleviate circulatory problems,” according to the Associated Press, via The Kansas City Star.

Adams’ condition worsened on December 28 following a brain hemorrhage, and he passed away while on life support on Monday morning.

As relayed by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation’s official Facebook page, his time of death was verified by his uncle Ivan Dick.

“May his soul rest in peace. He will forever live on in our hearts,” the TTFF added in its release.

Shaka Hislop, a former Trinidad and Tobago international, offered his condolences via his Twitter feed.

In March 2012, Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba suffered a heart attack during an FA Cup match away to Tottenham Hotspur, and his heart reportedly stopped beating on its own for 78 minutes. He was saved after the quick actions of in-stadium doctors and referee Howard Webb.

The following month, Livorno midfielder Piermario Morosini passed away after suffering cardiac arrest during a Serie B encounter against Pescara. His family’s affairs have been looked after by Udinese and Italy striker Antonio Di Natale and the Serie A club ever since.

Adams’ heart attack occurred following afternoon training, and he was immediately transported to Varosmajor Heart Clinic, where he remained until his death.

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