In the wake of professional footballer Jeffrey Ntuka's death, emerging players have been warned about the dangers of alcohol abuse.

Ntuka, once on the books of Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United, was murdered in Kroonstad, Free State, last Saturday after allegedly getting into an argument with tavern patrons.

Alcohol beverage company Brandhouse and the South African Footballers Union last year launched an initiative called DrinkIQ, with the aim of encouraging footballers to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Hareaipha "Simba" Marumo yesterday addressed players from various clubs about the effects excessive drinking could have on their careers.

He later told Sowetan that the aim was not to stop players from drinking, but rather to control it.

"The sad reality is that in our country we abuse alcohol. They (players) are a reflection of our communities, same as rugby players. So if you see them drinking a lot it tells you a lot about where they come from," Marumo said.

The only means to curb the problem, Marumo stressed, was to speak to youngsters.

"It is no use speaking to them when they are in their mid-20s because that is too late. When they are young, they are most likely to listen to you than when they are older.

"It is sad to see players' promising careers being destroyed by alcohol."

Try as they might, though, former stars cannot always reach the current generation.

"When you speak to them, they genuinely listen to you. But as soon as their friends come around all of that goes out the window. One discussion is not going to change a lifetime habit," Marumo said.

About Ntuka's death Marumo said: "It is very sad because he was such a good player. I didn't know him that well, but he seemed like a good bloke."