Former Premier League Striker Cedric Roussel Dies Aged 45

Former Premier League footballer Cedric Roussel has died at the age of 45.

The Belgian striker, who was capped three times at senior international level, passed away on Saturday after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Roussel started and ended his playing career in his native Belgium but he also experienced club soccer in England, Russia, Italy, Cyprus and the Netherlands.

His first taste of the English game came in 1999 when he joined Coventry City.

Cedric Roussel pictured celebrating after scoring a goal for Coventry City in a Premier League game against Bradford in March 2000

IMAGO/Geoff Martin

Roussel scored eight goals in 38 EPL appearances for Coventry and would later describe his time at the club as "the best part of my career."

He joined Wolves from Coventry in 2001 and went on to score twice in 27 matches across all competitions for the Molineux side.

Both Coventry and Wolves tweeted statements to express their sadness at Roussel's death.

"Coventry City are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our former striker Cedric Roussel, at the age of just 45," read Coventry's statement.

It added: "Our condolences are with his family and friends at this very sad time."

Meanwhile, Wolves tweeted: "Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Cedric Roussel. Our former player has passed away aged just 45."