Former Premier League defender Sol Bamba dies aged 39

Bamba, who used to play for Cardiff City and captained Leeds United, was the technical director at Turkish side Adanaspor.

A club statement read: "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there.

"Our condolences to his family and our community."

Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff, but was declared cancer-free after a course of chemotherapy and returned to play again for the Bluebirds and Middlesbrough.

His career also took in the likes of Leicester, Hibernian and Dunfermline, in addition to 46 international appearances for the Ivory Coast.

In his final post on X, Bamba paid tribute to Sven-Goran Eriksson, who he briefly played for at Leicester City.

"He was not just an exquisite person, but he was also the best coach I've ever had, inspiring my journey as a player but also as a manager," he wrote on Monday.

Cardiff City, where Bamba won promotion to the Premier League in his first season, described him as a "club legend".

"As a player and coach, Sol's impact on our football club was immeasurable," they said in a statement.

"He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and everyone lucky enough to know and love Sol."

Leeds United said they are "devastated" by the news.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time," a statement read.

"Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts."

Bamba finished his career with Middlesbrough, where he played for one season.

The club said their thoughts are "with Sol's family and friends at this time".

-SKY NEWS