BUENOS AIRES, March 22 -- Rene Houseman, a member of Argentina's 1978 World Cup-winning team, has died at the age of 64, the Argentine Football Association said on Thursday.

The former Huracan, River Plate and Colo-Colo player was diagnosed with tongue cancer last year.

Known as El Loco, Spanish for the The Madman, Houseman was revered for his dribbling ability, speed and extroverted personality.

"With a lot of pain, we say goodbye to the champion Rene Houseman," Huracan said on Twitter. "Thank you, Loco, for so much joy. We will miss you."

Houseman's former national teammate, Osvaldo Ardiles, also paid tribute to his friend on the social media platform.

"Extraordinary player," Ardiles said. "Unique. All the skill in the world. Brave. Fast. Off and on the field. Humble. Privilege to have played so many games alongside him."

Houseman was capped 55 times for Argentina and was a part of the Albiceleste's 1974 and 1978 World Cup squads.

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