Attaphol Bussapakom, one of Thailand's most decorated coaches, passed away due to lung infection yesterday. He was 52.
Attaphol Bussapakom's funeral at Wat That Thong. Patipat Janthong
Affectionately called 'Coach Taek', Attaphol died at Bangkok's Praram 9 Hospital after lung failure, doctors said.
Attaphol was taken to a hospital in Hat Yai after a League One match between his team Police United and Songkhla United on April 8.
The former coach of Thai Premier League giants Buriram United, Muang Thong United and Bangkok Glass was found to have blood and lung infections and was moved to Praram 9 Hospital two days later.
Tributes poured in for the former national team player whose funeral is being held at Bangkok's Wat That Thong until Monday. His cremation will take place on Tuesday.
Thailand coach Kiatisak Senamuang, who played alongside Attaphol in Thailand's winning campaign at the 1993 SEA Games in Singapore, said Attaphol was one of the country's best midfielders.
"He led by example on and off the pitch," said Kiatisak. "He was a legend of Thai football and I will always remember his advice."
Former Thailand striker Piyapong Pue-on, who played with Attaphol for club and country, said his death was a big loss for Thai football. "He was a good player and a nice person,'' he said.
Buriram chairman Newin Chidchob said Attaphol was a capable coach with determination.
"Taek has passed away and this is a huge loss for his family and Thai football," he said.
Attaphol played for Thai Port and won the Malaysian Super League title with Pahang in 1995 when he played alongside former Thailand internationals Piyapong, Vitoon Kitmongkolsak and Chalermwut Sa-ngarpol.
As coach, he guided Buriram to secure an unprecedented treble of TPL, FA Cup and League Cup titles in 2011.
He also steered the Thunder Castle to win the FA Cup and League Cup titles in 2012.
Attaphol joined Buriram in 2010 after helping Muang Thong United win their first ever TPL title in 2009.
Attaphol also led BEC Tero Sasana to the AFC Champions League final in 2003.