Former Ipswich Town player Chris Bart-Williams has died, aged just 49.

Bart-Williams, who was born in Sierra Leone, arrived at Town on loan from Charlton in September 2003 along with the likes of Alan Mahon and Shefki Kuqi.

East Anglian Daily Times: Chris Bart-Williams, right, and Alan Mahon pictured after their first day of training with Town back in September 2003Chris Bart-Williams, right, and Alan Mahon pictured after their first day of training with Town back in September 2003 (Image: Newsquest)

The midfielder impressed so much that the move was made permanent in December, when he signed for the rest of the season.

He departed Suffolk in the summer of 2004 and went on to play for Apoel Nicosia in Cyprus.

East Anglian Daily Times: Chris Bart-Williams in action for Town against Bradford in October 2003Chris Bart-Williams in action for Town against Bradford in October 2003 (Image: Newsquest)

In all he made 26 appearances for the Blues - 22 of which were starts - and scored two goals.

Sheffield Wednesday, the club where he first rose to fame, said he died in America, where he worked as a coach and mentor to young players.

East Anglian Daily Times: Chris Bart-Williams pressures a Walsall player at Portman Road in September 2003Chris Bart-Williams pressures a Walsall player at Portman Road in September 2003 (Image: Newsquest)

Paying tribute last night, Town tweeted: "The club is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Chris Bart-Williams.

"Once a Blue, always a Blue."

East Anglian Daily Times: Chris Bart-Williams makes a tackle against Crystal Palace in December 2003Chris Bart-Williams makes a tackle against Crystal Palace in December 2003 (Image: Newsquest)

Former team-mate Darren Bent said: "RIP my former team mate Chris Bart-Williams, thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends."