Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek has passed away at just 47 years of age.
The Czech shot-stopper was in a coma after suffering a cardiac arrest a little over a week ago while running near his home in Ostrava, Czech Republic. His life-support machine was switched off on Tuesday.
Srnicek won 49 caps for the Czech Republic during a career which saw him spend time in England with Sheffield Wednesday, West Ham and Portsmouth – but it was during his spells at St James Park for which he will be best-remembered.
Members of the footballing community took to Twitter to share their sadness at the news…
It is with immense sadness that we confirm the passing of former #NUFC goalkeeper Pavel Srníček today. pic.twitter.com/DQi4ETE1Pk
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) December 29, 2015
Our deepest condolences go to Pavel's family, many friends, former colleagues and supporters at this very difficult time. #NUFC
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) December 29, 2015
Everyone at West Ham United is deeply saddened by the passing of former #WHUFC goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek 1/3 pic.twitter.com/Qn9fSpNxNK
— West Ham United (@WestHam) December 29, 2015
Pavel played three times for the Hammers in the spring of 2004. He has passed away at the age of 47 in his native Czech Republic 2/3
— West Ham United (@WestHam) December 29, 2015
The thoughts of everyone associated with West Ham United are with Pavel's loved ones at this immensely sad time #RIP Pavel Srnicek 3/3
— West Ham United (@WestHam) December 29, 2015
It is with incredible sadness that I've have learned that Pavel Srnicek has died. A gentleman and a great sportsman. RIP my friend
— Peter Schmeichel (@Pschmeichel1) December 29, 2015
The goalkeepers union loses another member, football loses another character. RIP Pavel Srnicek
— David James (@jamosfoundation) December 29, 2015
So very, very sad to lose my friend and former teammate @PavelSrnicekUK My thoughts are with his family at this awful time. #NUFC #RIPPavel
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) December 29, 2015
RIP Pavel Srnicek – Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time #swfc pic.twitter.com/gDoG056xuM
— Sheffield Wednesday (@swfc) December 29, 2015
Desperately sad to hear about Pavel Srnicek. He always seemed like one of the good guys. #nufc
— Amy Lawrence (@amylawrence71) December 29, 2015
Desperate news about Pavel Srnicek. Good keeper and a really likeable, humble person. Thoughts with his family and his many friends. RIP.
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) December 29, 2015