Tributes are being paid to former Premier League player and Belgium international Cedric Roussel

Coventry City have paid tribute to former striker Cedric Roussel after a shock death at the age of just 45.

Roussel suffered a fatal heart attack this afternoon back home in Belgium, where local press say he had been sitting on a terrace in Grote Markt, Mons. Emergency services arrived quickly and tried resuscitation but it did not work.

In a post on social media, Coventry wrote: “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.”

Another of Roussel’s old clubs, RAEC Mons had broken the news with the message: “We would like to convey our deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of Roussel. Thank you Cédric, you have left your mark on our club history.”

The Belgium national team account added: “We send our condolences to the family and friends of Cedric Roussel.”

Roussel had been a prolific forward for La Louviere before joining Coventry in the Premier League via Gent, initially on loan before sealing a £1.2million permanent switch.

He had an encouraging debut season alongside Robbie Keane, including two goals against Manchester United, but injuries held him back in his second term and he was sold to Wolves for about £2m.

He went on to play for a series of clubs including Genk, Standard Liege and Mons and he picked up three caps for Belgium.