Prague, June 30 (CTK) – Czech football player Josef Masopust, who died at the age of 84 on Monday, was presented with UEFA’s President Award for 2014 by Michel Platini on Sunday, when he visited Masopust shortly before his death during his current visit to Prague, Platini said Tuesday.
Platini appreciated Masopust’s extraordinary contribution to football, outstanding successes and exceptional personal qualities.
Platini said he decided to award the Czech football legend last year and that he wanted to present the award to Masopust in his native country.
Platini said he saw Masopust at his home on Sunday before he died. It was a moving unforgettable experience, he said.
Masopust, who died after a long disease, was Czech footballer of the century. In 1962, he was a midfielder on the team that won the silver medals at the World Championship in Chile. Afterwards, he was named European Footballer of the Year.
There are only two Czechs having won this award, the other being Pavel Nedved in 2003.
Masopust was also known for his gentlemanly behaviour and a great sense of fair paly.
The award of the UEFA president was introduced in 1998.
