Former Lviv Karpaty striker Edward Anyamkye, a Nigerian forward who became one of the first African legionnaires in the history of Ukrainian club football in the early 2000s, has passed away at the age of 48. This was reported by Sport RBC.UA, citing the press service of the Lviv club.
One of the pioneers of African legionnaires
Edward Anyamkye arrived in Ukraine in 2001 and established himself in the "green-and-white" squad, becoming the second African legionnaire in the history of the Lviv club. His arrival was a notable event for Ukrainian football at the time, as the appearance of players from Africa in the top league was still a rarity.
Three seasons and 58 matches for the "Lions"
According to the official statement from Karpaty, Edward spent three seasons with the team, played 58 matches, and scored four goals. In terms of goals scored, he ranks second among the African footballers who played for the Lviv club. In concluding the statement, the press service expressed their sorrow: "Eternal memory, Edward..."
Career outside of Ukraine
In addition to Lviv Karpaty, the Nigerian striker's professional career included stints with the Moldovan club Sheriff and several Finnish clubs. At the international level, Anyamkye defended the colors of the Nigerian youth national team (U-17), with whom he participated in the 1995 World Cup.
Circumstances of death
As of the time of publication, the causes of the 48-year-old former athlete's premature death have not been disclosed. The Lviv club limited its communication to an official statement about the player's passing and expressions of condolence; the press service did not provide additional details regarding his health or the circumstances of his death.
Thus, the passing of Edward Anyamkye is a loss for Ukrainian football, which remembers him as one of the pioneers of African legionnaires. The full statement of the club and details are provided in the article by Sport RBC.UA.
