In Memory of Andres Escobar

I just thought I would write a brief piece about Andres Escobar.

Today being March 13 would have been Escobar's 42nd birthday. Unfortunately, the former Colombian international footballer was killed aged just 27.

I don't want to make this a piece about crime or corruption but to just reflect upon his life.

Escobar is still held in the highest regard by the club he spent so many years with - Atletico Nacional. He only left them for one season - for Swiss team Young Boys.

As a commanding presence in defence he achieved some major honours - including the Colombian Championship in 1991. His biggest success came in 1989 when he won both the Copa America - with possibly the greatest Colombian national team - and the Copa Interamericana with Atletico in a win over UNAM Pumas.

Leading up to the 1994 World Cup - Colombia were hotly tipped to go far - with an incredible 5-0 thrashing of Argentina in qualifying.

Ultimately, that World Cup ended in tragic results with an Escobar own goal - which in turn resulted in his assassination.

But Andres Escobar was an athlete. He was a patriot. And with complimetary nicknames such as Gentleman Giant and Football's Knight - he is sorely missed. 120,000 people attending his funeral was proof of that.

Sport is supposed to transcend borders, politics and cultures. Football especially. Escobar deserved a longer career and the footballing world is a sadder place to have been deprived of his abilities.