George Arthur, affectionately called 'King' died at the Sunyani Government Hospital on Sunday after he was rushed following a cardiac arrest.

His close friend Yaw Poku, popularly called 'Express' spoke to Asempa Fm about the Kotoko legend's final moments. 

"He died at the Sunyani Government Hospital while the Black Stars were playing [Mauritius in the Afcon 2017 qualifier]," Poku said.

"The whole afternoon he was fine, very fine and bubbly and healthy. He was at my office and we were chatting and so on. 

"We decided to play a game of draughts [checkers] and all was well. Suddenly, while on the board we noticed he looked groggy, and then he started moving strangely.

"Initially we thought it was a joke - one of those things he does. But then he slumped and collapsed and we got together to take him to the hospital.

"But King George passed away before we reached the [Sunyani] Government Hospital.

Known widely as “King Arthur”, the former player featured for the Black Stars in the late '80s, and was also active for Kumasi Asante Kotoko as well as Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

'A great player'

The player has been described as a "great player" by veteran journalist Ken Bediako, who edited the Kotoko Express for many years.

"George was feared for his runs and his shot. He was very good and almost unplayable when he had the ball. It was at BA United that he was spotted by Kotoko and then he went to Kumasi".

Kwesi Appiah tribute

The former Black Stars coach weighed in on the shocking development, for he was a good friend of Arthur's.

“A day of sorrow. It’s really sad to lose a friend and brother. I’m in Sudan and couldn’t attend training when I heard the sad news. We were like brothers in the national team and Asante Kotoko,” he said.

“He was always encouraging me to work hard and serve the nation. Now that he’s gone who will be my brother and best friend?”

The family are yet to announce any arrangements.

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