Thrissur: Renowned Kerala football coach TK Chathunni passed away on Monday. He breathed his last at a hospital in Kochi. He was 79.

The former Indian player had over half a century of experience as both a football player and coach. He held an unparalleled position in the history of Indian football.

Under Chathunni's coaching, many became leading figures in Indian football, including the likes of Kerala player I.M. Vijayan and Bruno Coutinho of Goa.

He played for the army team EME. Secunderabad, Vasco Goa, Orkay Mills Bombay. Similarly, he represented Santosh Trophy teams like Services, Goa and Maharashtra (state team).

Chathunni's life as a coach was also distinguished. In 1979, he coached Kerala in the Santosh Trophy. In 1990, he coached M.R.F. Goa, Churchill Goa, K.S.E.B., Salgaocar, Mohun Bagan, F.C. Cochin, VIVA Kerala, Golden Threads, Josco F.C., and VIVA Chennai, among others, leading various clubs in four major footballing states in India.

He authored an autobiography titled 'Football My Soul'.