Former Arsenal striker Fabian Caballero has died at the age of 46

Former Arsenal and Dundee striker Fabio Caballero has sadly passed away at the age of 46.

Caballero, who earned the nickname Tyson during his 19-year playing career, is reported to have collapsed whilst playing futsal with some friends in his homeland.

The Paraguayan FA said in a statement: "The Paraguayan Football Association deeply regrets the passing of former footballer, Fabián Caballero, who had an outstanding career both in Paraguayan football and abroad. We accompany the family and friends in this difficult time."

Caballero played for a number teams in his native Paraguay, including Tembetary and Cerro Porteno, before joining Arsenal on loan for the 1998/99 campaign.

He made a single Premiership appearance for the Gunners; a substitute cameo in Arsenal's 1-1 draw at home to Middlesbrough in November 1998.

Image credit: Arsenal

The Argentine also featured in the club's 5-0 Worthington Cup fourth-round defeat to Chelsea, as well as a 4-2 FA Cup third-round victory against Preston.

Arsenal paid tribute to their former player on Saturday.

They wrote: "Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our former player, Fabian Caballero. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."

Arguably the best spell of his career came with Scottish side Dundee, where he scored 27 goals between 2000 and 2004.

Dundee released a statement on Saturday to express their heartfelt condolences.

"All at Dundee Football Club are extremely shocked and saddened this morning to learn of the passing of former Dundee player Fabián Caballero," they said.

"Fabián passed away at the age of 46 and will be greatly missed by everyone at Dundee Football Club. Fabián signed for The Dee in July 2000 and became a fan’s favourite amongst the Dundee supporters.

"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Fabián’s family at this very sad time. The club will issue a full tribute to Fabián later today. Rest in peace Fabián."