World Cup legend Johnny Rep, 72, was immediately taken to hospital after suffering a heart attack

World Cup legend Johnny Rep has sparked fears for his well-being after suffering a heart attack.

The former Ajax winger, 72, who now lives in Spain, was taken to hospital.

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The Dutchman’s health crisis came just a day after his Dutch teammate Johan Neeskens died on Sunday at the age of 73.

Rep helped Holland finish second at the 1974 and 1978 World Cup finals.

He set a national record with seven goals in the tournaments in West Germany and Argentina.

Rep’s late goal in the Netherlands’ 3-2 defeat by Scotland in 1978 infamously sent the Dutch into the second round – and sent the Scots home despite Archie Gemmill’s heroics.

Rep’s biographer, Mark van den Heuvel, told Dutch media that the ex-player needed to be fitted with a pacemaker.

He said: “The insurers want Johnny to return to Holland as it only costs £8,400.” [10,000 euros] to fit him with a pacemaker, compared to £21,000 in Spain.

“But his family says Johnny is far too weak to make the journey.

“I’m not sure how the next few days will turn out.

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“Johnny swore to me that he would survive this and everyone around him said he would be fine.”

“His children are at his bedside.”

Rep revealed last summer that he had undergone three stomach and back surgeries.

The former right-winger also battled alcohol addiction and suffered financial difficulties.

Rep inspired Ajax to European Cup victory in 1972 and 1973.

He also won two Eredivisie titles with the Amsterdam club and went on to play for Valencia, Bastia, Saint Etienne, Zwolle and Feyenoord.