Former Rangers defender Marius Zaliukas died at the age of 36.

Marius Zaliukas passed away at the age of 36. While the Lithuanian Federation confirmed the bitter news, no explanation was made about the cause of Zaliukas’ death. According to foreign media reports, Zaliukas died due to Motor Neuron disease.

Zaliukas, who played over 150 games for Hearts between 2007 and 2013, captained his team in 2012, when they won the Scottish Cup.

Throughout his career, Marius Zaliukas has played with the FBK Kaunas, Kauno Inkaro, Šilutė, Edinburgh Hearts, Glasgow Rangers, Leeds United and Vilnius Žalgiris.

Zaliukas, who played for the Lithuanian National Team between 2006-2016, scored a goal.

What is motor neuron disease?

The Motor Neuron Disease Association states that the term ‘motor neuron disease’ refers to a group of diseases that negatively affect the nervous system.

Damage to motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord makes it difficult for them to send signals to body muscles. This can cause muscle weakness and decrease. Motor neuron disease is often referred to as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).