Christian Benitez, who played for Birmingham City in the Premier League, has tragically died at the age of 27 after suffering a heart attack. He made his debut for Qatari side El Jaish on Sunday against Qatar SC, but was admitted to hospital after the game with stomach pains.

An Ecuador Football Federation statement read: 'The FEF regrets to inform you of the death of Christian Benitez, the striker of Qatar club Al Jaish and the Ecuador national team.

'Benitez, who was with his new club in Qatar, had a severe stomach pain, which was why he was rushed to a hospital, where after a few hours suffered he suffered a cardio respiratory arrest, which ended his life.

'The Ecuadorian Football Federation extends its heartfelt sympathy to the family - parents, wife, children - and friends of our striker Christian Benitez. May he rest in peace.'