Pavel Srnicek dies aged 47

The former Czech Republic international collapsed while jogging on December 20 and was hospitalised before spending recent days on a life support machine.

Srnicek - who represented the likes of Newcastle, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham before assuming a coaching role with Sparta Prague - passed away on Tuesday.

"It is with deep sadness that I have to announce the passing of former Newcastle United player Pavel Srnicek," read a statement from agent Steve Wraith.

"Pavel suffered a cardiac arrest before the Christmas period in his home country and had been in an induced coma in hospital with his close family around his bedside.

"Despite the best medical attention the final brain scans on Monday showed irreversible damage and the decision had to be taken to switch off the life support machine.

"Pav passed away on the afternoon of Tuesday 29th December 2015 with his family by his side."

Srnicek was best remembered for his first of two spells on Tyneside, where he formed part of Kevin Keegan's 'Entertainers' side that almost won the Premier League in 1996.

The Czech also listed Banik Ostrava, Brescia and Beira-Mar among his former clubs and represented his country at the European Championships in 1996 and 2000.

Newcastle fans voiced appreciation for their former goalkeeper with 'Pavel is a Geordie' chants during the recent Premier League game with Everton after news of his health issues emerged and the club led tributes following Srnicek's passing.

"It is with immense sadness that we confirm the passing of former NUFC goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek," the club tweeted.

"Our deepest condolences go to Pavel's family, many friends, former colleagues and supporters at this very difficult time."

Former team-mate Alan Shearer said on Twitter: "So very, very sad to lose my friend and former teammate @PavelSrnicekUK My thoughts are with his family at this awful time. #NUFC #RIPPavel."