Diabetes snatches Uganda’s soccer legend David Otti

Uganda Cranes soccer icon David Otti has died at Kampala's Case Medicare Clinic, family and friends say. Otti, 71, is reported to have breathed his last at 2pm, losing a protracted battle to diabetes.

"He got an attack at his Mutundwe home (Wankulukuku) at midday (on Thursday) and was rushed to the clinic where he passed on," says Mohamood Katerega, the Express Football Club manager.

Otti's legacy was eclipsed by coaching duties at Uganda' top three clubs; Express, Kampala City Council and Villa. He too managed Kenyan side Gor Mahia and Rwanda's outfit, Armée Patriotique Rwandaise (APR) FC.

The former Ugandan international, was also in charge of the Ugandan teams that qualified for the Africa Cup of Nation in Cairo (1974) and Ethiopia (1976).

Reports indicate Otti spent much of Wednesday struggling for his life. His leg had been amputated at Mulago Hospital in May 2010.

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