THERE was further heartbreak for the family of Leo Percovich last night when it was announced that his eldest daughter had died a week after a car crash.

The ten-year-old daughter of the club's former goalkeeping coach died in hospital on Christmas Eve.

Valentina had been fighting for her life following the accident in Brazil which also tragically took the life of his youngest daughter, Antonella.

His club Fluminense confirmed the news late last night.

A statement published on their website read: "Fluminense regret to report that the eldest daughter of club U-20 coach Léo Percovich died early Sunday night at Santa Casa de Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais.

"The club decrees official mourning for three days.

"The 10-year-old girl had been hospitalised since last Saturday when the accident occurred.

"The couple's son remains hospitalised, but stable.

"In this delicate and difficult moment, it is important to thank all the assistance, commitment, care and dedication given to the family by the employees of Santa Casa de Juiz de Fora and Albert Sabin Hospital.

"The club also thanks all the prayers and support received."

Mr Percovich spent three-and-a-half years at Boro under head coach Aitor Karanka. He left the club in the summer and moved to the Rio de Janeiro area of Brazil to take up his new coaching post in August.

The couple's five-year-old daughter, Antonella, died on the way to hospital following the horrific crash.

Percovich suffered minor injuries while his wife Juliana, 40, sustained a fractured pelvis.

The couple's son, Pietro, is believed to remain in serious condition in the hospital.