Former France defender Jean-Pierre Adams has died at the age of 73, almost 40 years after falling into a coma following a medical error, his former clubs announced on Monday.
In 1982, Adams was administered a near-fatal dose of anaesthetic ahead of a routine knee operation, which caused brain damage.
On the day of Adams’ operation to repair a damaged tendon – suffered while on a coaching training camp – many staff at the hospital in Lyon were on strike.
Born in Senegal, the defender made more than 140 appearances for Nice and also played for Paris Saint-Germain.
In a statement, PSG said Adams’ “joie de vivre, charisma and experience commanded respect”.
Nice said the club would pay tribute to Adams – who won 22 caps for France between 1972-1976 – before their next home game against Monaco on 19 September.
Adams also made 84 appearances for Nimes, who said they were sending their “most sincere condolences to his loved ones and his family”.
Since the accident, Adams has been cared for by his wife, Bernadette.