TP Mazembe have backtracked on their initial statement that legendary midfielder Rainford Kalaba has passed away in a car accident – instead he was taken to hospital in critical condition.
The 37-year-old had hung up his boots ahead of the current season following a career that saw him feature for the likes of ZESCO United, Braga and Gil Vicente before his move to TP Mazembe.
He featured over 250 times for the Congolese giants, spending 12 years at the club.
Kalaba also represented the Zambian national team 103 times, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2012.
He also lift a CAF Champions League trophy with Mazembe in 2014/15.
After TP Mazembe initially stated that the Zambia legend has passed away after being involved in a car accident on Saturday, they later backtracked on this statement and confirmed he was taken to hospital.
Meanwhile, the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) also confirmed that Kalaba is still alive.
“UTH Public Relations Officer Nzeba Chanda says former Chopolopolo player Raindford Kalaba is not dead, contrary to social media reports,” read a statement.
“But Chanda says Kalaba’s situation is critical. Chanda has said in an interview that Kalaba was taken to UTH around 15:30 hours in an unconscious state after being involved in an accident earlier today along the Kafue road.
“She however said would issue a comprehensive statement in due course as doctors were by press time working on the former Zambian soccer player.”