Socrates of Brazil (and Garforth) dies at 57

Known for his elegant style on the field and his deep involvement with Brazilian politics, Socrates died of septic shock resulting from an intestinal infection in hospital in São Paulo.

He had been rushed to hospital on Saturday – the third time in four months – and had been in critical condition in an intensive care unit, breathing with the help of a ventilator.

Socrates, who played for Botafogo, Corinthians, Fiorentina, Flamengo and Santos, was twice admitted to intensive care in the last few month, for haemorrhages caused by high pressure in the vein that carries blood from the digestive system to the liver.

He acknowledged being a heavy drinker, even when he starred as a player in the 1980s, but said he gave up alcohol earlier this year. He was also a chain smoker, but nevertheless became a doctor after retiring.

Later he was a popular TV commentator and columnist.

The tall full-bearded playmaker was included in Fifa’s list of the best 125 living footballers in the world, a list compiled by compatriot Pele.