Lokeren defender Gregory Mertens died three days after collapsing during a reserve match, his club announced yesterday.

The 24-year-old lost consciousness in the first half of a meeting with Genk on Monday night and was initially attended to by both the Lokeren and Genk medical staff before he was transported to hospital.

But Lokeren confirmed yesterday the player had died.

“Today something happened which no one could ever dare to predict. Much too soon, we are saying goodbye to Gregory Mertens,” Lokeren said in a statement.

“We are a football club. Everyone in and around the club lives and breathes football.

“But suddenly something happens which makes us realise football is just football. Today is such a time.”