Real 'saddened by' Marquitos' death

Former Real Madrid defender Marquitos, a member of the all-conquering side that won five European Cups between 1956 and 1960, has died at the age of 78. Between 1954 and 1963, Marquitos accumulated a wealth of silverware as a part of the team that included such greats as Alfredo di Stefano, Ferenc Puskas and Paco Gento. Marquitos, whose full name was Marcos Alonso Imaz, began his career with his hometown club Racing Santander in 1951 before joining Real Madrid in 1954, just in time for the greatest period in the club's history. As well as five European Cups, he also won one Intercontinental Cup, five Spanish league titles and one Spanish Cup. Marquitos' career path was emulated by his offspring, with his son, Marcos Alonso Pena, playing professional football for Racing, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. His grandson, Marcos Alonso Mendoza, meanwhile, has represented Spain at Under-19 level and currently plays for English Premier League club Bolton Wanderers. Real Madrid, who celebrated their 110th anniversary on Tuesday, declared themselves "very saddened" by Marquitos' death in a message on their website.