Pavel Srnicek, Former Newcastle and Czech Republic Goalkeeper, Dies at Age 47

Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek has died after recently suffering a cardiac arrest.  

The player's agent, Steve Wraith, confirmed Srnicek's death in a short statement, per talkSPORT.

BBC Sport reported the 47-year-old former Czech Republic goalkeeper died after collapsing nine days ago. He was taken to a hospital in Ostrava and placed in an induced coma on December 20.

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Mark Douglas of the Newcastle Chronicle said Srnicek was left fighting for his life after collapsing while running at home in the Czech Republic, leaving him in a critical condition. 

A hospital spokesman told the Chronicle [sic]: “I can confirm that it is hospitalized in our hospital, but on the wishes of the family will not disclose details of his condition.”

Tributes poured in for the star on Tuesday as word spread of Srnicek's death. 

Newcastle issued their condolences to their former player's family and friends:

Legendary figures Alan Shearer and Peter Schmeichel also paid their condolences:

Arsenal and Czech Republic goalkeeper Petr Cech and Newcastle United 'keeper Tim Krul also offered their thoughts:

Stan Collymore of talkSPORT paid his respects to the popular former 'keeper:

Wraith had further explained Srnicek's condition on social media after he collapsed (h/t Douglas): "Pavel was running last night and his heart stopped. He was like that for 20 minutes then rushed to hospital. He is an induced coma until Wednesday. Then they will see if his heart is stronger and if so bring him out of the coma."

Srnicek played in English football on three separate occasions, appearing for Sheffield Wednesday, Portsmouth and West Ham after seven years with the Magpies.

The goalkeeper returned to the north-east in 2006 to represent the St James' Park club for an additional season before retiring.