Players crying as head coach succumbs amid game

Players fell to the ground sobbing as they discovered of their manager's death in the middle of a contest in the country's premier division

FK Radnicki 1923 coach the 44-year-old collapsed and received treatment beside the field before being rushed to a healthcare center during his side's game at their opponents' ground on recently

The professional game proceeded but was halted moments before the interval when word of the manager's demise arrived at the ground

Recordings of the contest showed team members and personnel from the competing clubs in distress at the development

The former Bosnian national team member, mid-forties, was only appointed manager of the football club on late October

"Our club has suffered the loss of not only a excellent coach but above all a good man, a confidant, and a athlete who, with his expertise, enthusiasm and character has made a significant impact on the hearts of all who had the privilege of meeting him"

The national football governing body said its "sports circle has been deprived of an additional dedicated sports professional" with his demise

"In the course of his extensive athletic journey, the coach was part of various organizations in the Premier League of the country, most notably HSK Zrinjski Mostar, Radnik Bijeljina and FK Borac Banja Luka, and he additionally represented the uniform of the national squad"

"Upon completing his professional playing days, he devoted his efforts to management, guiding organizations in the area and surrounding countries"

"The premature death represents a major setback for the country's soccer"

"The dedication for football and the legacy you established will remain with us permanently"

Major organizations additionally expressed condolences, including the renowned team, who passed on their "deepest condolences"