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Former Hearts and Rangers defender Marius Zaliukas has passed away at the age of 36.
The center-back spent much of his career in Scotland, becoming a Tynecastle hero after arriving from Kaunas in 2006.
Zaliukas had been quietly fighting an anonymous condition, according to the 15min website, and his wife announced Saturday that the defender passed away just 11 days after his 37th birthday.
Nora Zaliuke wrote on social media: “He will rest in peace in eternal silence.
“Marius Zaliukas’s heart stopped beating today.”
The center-back played more than 200 games for Heart and was part of the team that won the Scottish Cup in 2012, captaining the Jambos in the final.
That victory was sealed with a 5-1 win over Hibs, with the sad news of his passing during a Scottish Cup semi-final between rivals Edinburgh.
Zaliukas left Gorgie in 2013 to join Leeds United, but returned a year later for a season with Rangers.
After 28 appearances and two goals, he returned to his homeland with Zalgris.
Zaliukas also won 25 games for his country, and the Lithuanian FA paid tribute to the defender.
A statement read: “Marius Zaliukas represented the Lithuanian national team from 2006 to 2016 and managed to score a goal. Marius inspired countless young footballers, and his contribution to Lithuanian football will never be forgotten.
“During his excellent career, the player represented the FBK Kaunas, Kauno Inkaro, Silute, Hearts, Rangers, Leeds United and Vilnius Zalgiris clubs.
“On behalf of the Lithuanian football community, we express our deepest condolences to the Marius family.”
A memorial service will be held on November 4 and the following day.
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