Sol Bamba played for Leicester City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough in his playing career as well as memorably helping Cardiff City earn promotion to the Premier League under Neil Warnock

Former Cardiff City captain and fan favourite defender Sol Bamba has died at the age of 39.

The ex- Ivory Coast international, who also played for Leicester City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough, fell ill ahead of a match in Turkey on Friday and was taken to hospital. Turkish top-flight side Adanaspor, who Bamba had been the head coach of since the summer, confirmed the news of his passing on Saturday evening.

In a statement, Adanaspor said: “Our Technical Director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community.”

Cardiff posted a heartfelt tribute which read: “It is with the deepest sadness that we have learnt this evening about the passing of Club legend, Sol Bamba. As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable.

“He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and everyone lucky enough to know and love Sol.”

Leeds expressed their condolences by saying: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”

Middlesbrough also posted on social media: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39. Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.”

Another of his former clubs, Trabzonspor, added: “We have learned with deep sorrow the passing of Adanaspor coach Sol Bamba, who wore our jersey between 2012-2014. May God have mercy on him and we offer our condolences to his family and all his loved ones.”