Daniel Prodan: Former Rangers and Romania defender dies from heart attack
Prodan starred for Romania in their run to the quarter-finals at USA 1994 but struggled in Glasgow with knee problems
DANIEL PRODAN has died of a heart attack.
The former Rangers and Romania defender has passed away aged just 44.
His former club Atletico Madrid shared news of his death on their official website.
A statement said: “Daniel Prodan, a former player of our club, has died at age 44 due to a heart attack.
“The President and CEO give their condolences to his family. Rest in peace Daniel Prodan.”
And the club’s official Twitter account added: “It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we report the passing of our former squad member, Daniel Prodan.”
Mircea Sandu, former Romanian Football President, confirmed Prodan’s death in his home country to website ProSport.
Prodan was signed from Spanish side Atletico Madrid by Rangers boss Dick Advocaat for £2.2million in 1998.
But he never played a competitive game in his two and a half years in Glasgow due to a serious knee injury before the club released him in 2001.
He won 54 international caps for Romania, scoring one goal, while playing in the 1994 World Cup and Euro 96.
Shocked Light Blues fans paid tribute to their former player on social media.
Willie Vass posted: “Sad to hear of his passing — 44 is no age to be taken away.”
Scott Currie said: “Another member of the Rangers family taken but another that won’t be forgotten. Rest easy Daniel Prodan.”
John Caw said: “RIP Daniel Prodan too young to die.”
And Wullie O’Halloran added: “Really saddened to hear of the passing of Daniel Prodan. RIP.”
