08.02.2014 19:24 h

Football: Former French international Philippe Mahut dies

Former French international footballer Philippe Mahut, who played in the 1982 World Cup, has died, aged 57.

A defender, Mahut won nine caps for the national side including an appearance in France's World Cup third-place play-off against Poland in Spain 32 years ago.

In the French domestic league, Mahut was best remembered for his appearances with FC Metz and Saint-Etienne.

Noel Le Graet, the president of the French Football Federation, said Mahut was a "generous man" who remained committed to the "values of sport".

Le Graet added that the "entire French football family" sent its "deepest condolences" to his family and friends.