He said: “When the news came through it was tough, so hard to take.
“I played with him in the national team, he was one of my team-mates and my thoughts are with his family at such a bad moment.
“His girlfriend is eight months pregnant and he was only 22. Apparently, he was fit and healthy but these things don’t give you a call.
“It comes when it comes and it takes you to Heaven.
“This is such a pity and it’s the worst day in my footballing life to know that someone who I was close to has left us.
“It was hard to face Toulouse after hearing the news.
“It was unbelievable and we just had to do the most professional job we could.
“It makes you realise being healthy, seeing your family and children are the most important things in life and football’s just a game.
“At times like this football does not matter. It shows you have to enjoy life, thank God every day and live for each day.”
