Richards Bay captain Siphamandla Mtolo dies after collapsing in training

South African DStv Premiership outfit Richards Bay Football Club midfielder Siphamandla ‘Spepe’ Mtolo (29) died after collapsing during training on Tuesday morning, the club announced in a statement.

“It is with deep sadness to announce that Richards Bay Football Club has suffered the untimely loss of midfielder Siphamandla ‘Spepe’ Mtolo.

“He collapsed this morning (Tuesday) during training. The club is not in a position to provide further information at this stage and ask that his family’s privacy is respected in this difficult time of bereavement,” wrote the club.

“His presence, both on and off the pitch will be sorely missed. Thoughts and prayers of everyone in Richards Bay Football Club are with his family, friends and loves ones.”

The 29-year-old holding midfielder who was reportedly the club’s captain was part of Richard Bay’s team that played and lost to Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.

Mtolo only made six appearances for Bay this season after missing much of the campaign due to a long term injury.

According to reports, Mtolo played a pivotal role to help Bay earn promotion into the top flight league last season.