Former Bafana, Sundowns and CT Spurs striker Alton Meiring dies aged 48

Former Bafana Bafana striker Alton Meiring has died.

The 48-year-old, who earned two caps for South Africa's national team, enjoyed a journeyman career in local football, turning out for clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Jomo Cosmos, Golden Arrows and Hellenic.

Since retiring over a decade ago, Meiring remained active in the football community, dedicating his time as a youth coach with various teams.

His most recent role was with the Johannesburg-based Luso Africa, who confirmed the devastating news on social media.

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"It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of coach Alton Meiring," it said.

"He has been a big supporter of our club, contributing to multiple teams over the last few seasons, from juniors to seniors, and even our ladies' team.

"We are deeply grateful for his knowledge and assistance. Please keep his family in your prayers."

Luso Africa chairman of football, Joe da Silva, told News24 that Meiring would be sorely missed by everyone associated with the club. 

"The parents loved him. Our girls players, yesterday, were crying," he said.

"He is a helluva loss. They're going to miss him, because he has really helped them develop.

"He is a very good development coach. He is going to be missed terribly. He is a big loss.

"His advice to youngsters in terms of how to attack and score goals was invaluable."

Luso Africa spokesperson and daughter of the club chairman, Miquela da Silva, explained that Meiring had relocated to Germiston before joining the club, where his impact was immediate.

Initially lending his expertise to the ABC Motsepe League team, Meiring soon became involved across almost every age