Ex-Premier League striker Cedric Roussel dies of a heart attack at just 45 years old

Former Premier League striker Cedric Roussel has passed away at the age of 45.

The former Belgian striker represented both Coventry and Wolves while playing in England, but sadly suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away this Saturday afternoon.

Roussel started his football career in his home country of Belgium at La Louvière, before moving to Gent and then the Sky Blues on loan from Gent in 1999.

The forward joined Coventry permanently a year later despite reported bids from Leeds and Tottenham, spending another season at the club before moving across the Midlands to sign for Wolves.

On Saturday, Coventry City's official Twitter account tweeted:

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

"Cedric played 43 games for the Sky Blues from 1999-2001, scoring 11 goals. Our condolences are with his family and friends at this very sad time."

Roussel spent two years at Wolves, though he was sent to Belgian club Mons on loan in his second season at the Molineux after bagging eight goals in 53 appearances in England.

The striker then left England for good in 2003, signing for KRC Genk in his homeland.

Cedric Roussel represented Wolves in Division One from 2001-2002.

Roussel, who managed three appearances for the Belgium national team, became somewhat of a journeyman after that, representing 11 more clubs in an array of countries before hanging up his boots.

The Belgium national team's Twitter account also paid tribute to the Late Roussel with a message saying:

"We send our condolences to the family and friends of Cedric Roussel."

Our thoughts go out to Roussel's family and loved ones.