'Iron' Rinus Israel (83), icon of Dutch football, has passed away

Israel's death is reported by NOS .

Israel was born in Amsterdam, but spent his best years as a footballer in Rotterdam.

However, he did win his first national title in 1964 with an Amsterdam club, namely DWS, where he made his debut in 1962. In 1963 the club was promoted to the Eredivisie, and immediately became champion in the first season.

In 1966 he earned a transfer to the club where he would become world famous, Feyenoord. The transfer fee of 450,000 guilders was a record amount.

His contribution to the European Cup 1 final victory against Celtic was great. Israel not only scored the first goal for his club, he also provided the assist for the winning goal by striker Kindvall deep into extra time.

With the club from Rotterdam he won, in addition to the European Cup 1 in 1970, three national titles and a World Cup.

At Feyenoord, Israël and Theo 'the tank' Laseroms were a feared duo, both were known for their rock-hard interventions. His ruthless play earned him the nickname 'Iron Rinus'.

In 1974 Israël moved to another Rotterdam club, Excelsior. He stayed there for one season, before moving to PEC Zwolle. He ended his career there in 1982.

As a trainer he later had Feyenoord (1986-1988), Dinamo Bucharest, Oranje under 21 and ADO Den Haag under his wing. He also trained several clubs in the United Arab Emirates.