IPSWICH Town’s Carling Cup opponents Exeter City have announced the death of one of their players.

Striker Adam Stansfield, 31, died yesterday after a battle with bowel cancer. The news came as Exeter lost 3-2 to a young Ipswich side in the first round of the Carling Cup last night.

Stansfield was diagnosed with bowel cancer in April following a series of tests for an abdominal complaint.

The former Yeovil and Hereford player scored seven goals in 19 appearances for Exeter last season.

In a statement last night, Exeter City said: “It is with great sadness that Exeter City Football Club have to confirm the news that Adam Stansfield passed away this evening,”

“Our thoughts are with his wife, family and friends at this time.”

A statement from the Football League added: “Everyone connected with the Football League would like to express its deepest sympathy to Adam’s family and friends.”