Lewis, who had three spells as a Coach at Kaizer Chiefs, was a Technical Director at Moroka Swallows at the time of his death.

Speaking to kaizerchiefs.com, ‘Chincha Guluva’, as Kaizer Motaung, is affectionately known in football said, “We are all saddened by the untimely passing away of Eddie Lewis. I have known him for a very long time.

“He had three spells with the team as a Coach. He actually coached me back in 1974 when we beat Hellenic 2-1 at Orlando in the final of Chevrolet. I remember when there was a dispute in that game and he had come with his friend. His friend, out of generosity, offered the team more money if we win the cup. Eddie said, ‘Guys we got to go out and play this game'."

He added: “He is the only Coach I have known who coached two teams at the same time. Wits were campaigning in the NSL while we were campaigning in the NPSL so he managed to coach both teams.

“We had to part ways in 1978 when we campaigned in the same league as Wits. Eddie was a friend and was always available when we needed him at Kaizer Chiefs. As a Coach I rated him highly and he was successful in all the teams that he has coached.

“I remember when he lost his father in England; he came through to tell us the sad news. I was with the late, Ewert Nene and Gilbert Sakgabi. He was almost in tears and could not believe it when we offered to pay his travelling expenses to UK for him to attend the funeral.

“On behalf of Kaizer Chiefs Family I send heartfelt condolences to the family of Eddie. He made a significant contribution to the development football in South Africa.

"I was honoured to write a foreword on his book, 'From Manchester to Soweto' a couple of years ago. He was really a jolly fellow and will be missed by all,” added Motaung.