Germany goalkeeper Enke, 32, in ‘suicide’
GERMANY was stunned last night by the apparent suicide of national goalkeeper Robert Enke.
The Hannover 96 stopper, 32, was hit by a train at a level crossing near his home in Neustadt Eilvese, just outside the city.
Jorg Neblung, a friend and advisor to Enke, said: “I can confirm that it was suicide. Robert took his own life shortly before six o’clock. A press conference in Hannover on Wednesday will reveal more details.”
Enke only returned to action last weekend following a nine-week lay-off with a stomach problem.
He was left out of the Germany squad for the upcoming friendlies against Chile and Ivory Coast, but had been assured by coach Joachim Low he remained the top candidate to play at next year’s World Cup.
“We’re speechless,” said German football federation president Theo Zwanziger. “Our sympathies are with Robert Enke’s wife and his family.”
Enke, who won eight caps, also played for Barcelona, Borussia Moenchengladbach and Benfica.