Socceroos great Steve Maxwell dies aged just 59 - throwing Australian football into mourning and drawing high praise from Craig Foster and Robbie Slater
- Star racked up almost 300 games in National Soccer League
- Won several titles, member of South Australian Hall of Fame
- Debuted for the Socceroos aged 21 in 1986
Steve Maxwell has been remembered as a 'true legend of Australian football' after the Socceroos star died on Sunday aged just 59.
The South Australian great played 296 games in the National Soccer League - the forerunner to the A-League - from 1983 to 1994, winning three national titles and two NSL with Adelaide City, and also starring for the Marconi Stallions.
He made his debut for the Socceroos aged 21 in 1986, turning out in the green and gold against Czechoslovakia, and went on to make three more appearances for the national side.
Maxwell played with big names such as current national coach Graham Arnold and John Kosmina, who earned 60 caps for his country.
![Steve Maxwell (pictured) was fondly remembered by Socceroos greats Craig Foster and Robbie Slater, with Foster calling him an 'extremely tough opponent'](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/12/05/82345937-13185731-image-m-14_1710220059016.jpg)
Steve Maxwell (pictured) was fondly remembered by Socceroos greats Craig Foster and Robbie Slater, with Foster calling him an 'extremely tough opponent'
![The ex-Socceroo is pictured left, hoisting a trophy during his extremely successful time with Adelaide City in the old National Soccer League](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/12/05/82345943-13185731-image-a-15_1710220133119.jpg)
The ex-Socceroo is pictured left, hoisting a trophy during his extremely successful time with Adelaide City in the old National Soccer League
Born in North Adelaide, the forward moved into coaching once his playing days were over.
Governing body Football Australia (FA) said Maxwell's legacy 'will forever be etched in the annals of our sport's history'.
'Steve Maxwell was not only a remarkable footballer but also a cherished member of our football community,' FA chair Anter Isaac said.
'His contributions on and off the field have left an indelible mark on the sport in Australia.
'On behalf of Football Australia, I extend our deepest sympathies to Steve's family, friends, and all who were fortunate to witness his passion and dedication to the beautiful game. He will be remembered fondly and missed dearly.'
![The forward won three national titles and two NSL Cups during his time with City, and also starred for Sydney's Marconi Stallions](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/12/05/82345947-13185731-image-m-17_1710220199925.jpg)
The forward won three national titles and two NSL Cups during his time with City, and also starred for Sydney's Marconi Stallions
Socceroos great Craig Foster was full of praise for his Adelaide City teammate.
'He'll be missed by the club and fans of the National Soccer League, who will all remember him fondly as an extremely tough opponent,' Foster said.
'Very sad for the football community, who have lost many legends in recent months.'
'Fantastic player! Wow very sad to hear this! Condolences to all of his family,' said Aussie former Premier League star Robbie Slater.
Adelaide club the Sturt Lions also paid tribute to the late Socceroo.
'It breaks our hearts to announce the passing of Stephen Alexander Maxwell - affectionately known as "Maxi",' the club's statement read.
'Maxi will be deeply missed by everyone that had the honour to play with him, be coached by him, and know him through his passion for football.'