Igor Dobrovolski struggled to find the right words to describe his sorrow after learning of Johan Cruyff’s death during the Malta-Moldova post-match news conference on Thursday.

“This is news to me,” Dobrovolski said.

“Cruyff was a legend. During my playing career, I wore the no.14 shirt because of him... he was my idol.

“I’m very sorry that he has passed away.”

Dobrovolski then took out his mobile phone as he told journalists that he is currently reading Cruyff’s book ‘Football. My Philosophy.’

Malta coach Pietro Ghedin said: “I’m saddened by the news of Cruyff’s death. He was one of the best players the world has ever seen. His passing came as a shock but we can only honour his memory by playing the game he graced with such finesse.”