FORMER Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died aged 48 after his car was hit by a train in Austria.

Austrian police said his car was struck at a level crossing in Salzburg at 8.20am local time yesterday (Thursday).

The Austrian international joined the Gunners for a fee of £500,000 in 1997 and played at the club until 2002.

He made 64 appearances for the club throughout his stint at Highbury, and helped the club to Premier League and FA Cup wins. He went on to play for Bologna, Juventus and home club FC Salzburg.

A statement from Arsenal Football Club said: “Everyone at Arsenal is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic passing of former goalkeeper, Alex Manninger.

“All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.”