The death of legendary South African football coach Clive Barker has been met with universal sadness and grief with tributes pouring in from all over for the only manager to ever lead South Africa to an African Cup of Nations title.

Former players Andre Arendse and Lucas Radebe remembered him fondly as did former player turned coach Pitso Mosimane.

Writing on Twitter Arendse, who was ‘keeper when Bafana Bafana won the AFCON title in 1996 said: “Some of my fondest memories will live with me always. You were a massive part of my journey in football. Rest in peace, my coach, my mentor, my friend. Forever in my heart.”

Radebe, who was part of the same team echoed Arendse’s words, saying: “Saddened by the passing of legendary coach Clive Barker with whom we shared some great moments during Afcon 96 team successes.”

Barker, who was the uncle of Stellenbosch United coach Steve Barker, died from Lewy Body Dementia. He was 78.

His former player Pitso Mosimane, who is now one of South Africa’s most successful managers added his tribute, saying: “The only one in South Africa to win Afcon. He made players perform beyond their talent. He was a friend, coach, mentor, leader and father.

“A difficult combination to get out of a coach. He coached a human being first then a talented football player. I am lucky he was my coach,” said Mosimane.