Former Socceroo player Ian Gray was found dead in his apartment in Elizabeth Bay on Monday night by friends who had grown concerned when he missed appointments and stopped taking calls over the weekend.

Police believe it was foul play and homicide detectives are carrying out an investigation into how the 46 year old died.

Gray started his career with the Manly Vale and Western Suburbs clubs. He was an experienced defender and midfielder and joined the national football team in 1984 when he went on tour around the world, playing in the UK, China and Italy.

He was honoured with an Award of Distinction in the Football Federtaion Australia's Hall of Fame in 2004.
The FFA's chairman yesterday issued a statement saying he was saddened to hear of Gray's death, adding that he was a respected teammate and a great ambassador for football.
Police are urging anyone with information on Gray's death to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.