Former Middlesbrough defender Sol Bamba has died at the age of 39.

Bamba had been employed at Turkish club Adanaspor, who announced the news late on Saturday night.

A club statement read: “Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club 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.”

Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff, but was declared cancer-free after a course of chemotherapy and returned to play again for the Bluebirds and Middlesbrough.

His career also took in the likes of Cardiff, Leicester, Hibernian and Dunfermline, in addition to 46 international appearances for the Ivory Coast.

Middlesbrough wrote on X: “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. RIP Sol”

Bamba made 29 appearances for Middlesbrough after joining in August 2021. He'd initially linked up with former boss and close friend Neil Warnock to train and keep fit after cancer battle but earned a contract on Teesside. He quickly established himself as a huge favourite with the supporters.

Former Boro physio Chris Moseley posted on X: "Devastated. RIP Sol. You won't ever meet a nicer guy."

Former Boro player and now BBC Tees pundit Neil Maddison posted: "Sol was an unbelievable guy who everybody loved. RIP Big Man."

Bamba's other former club also paid tribute to the former defender.

Leeds said in a statement: “Everyone at LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away,” Leeds said in a statement posted on X.

“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.”