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

Born in Sierra Leone, Bart-Williams joined players such as Alan Mahon and Shefki Kuqi at Town after being loaned by Charlton in September 2003.

Chris 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.

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

He appeared in 26 games for the Blues in total, starting 22 of them, 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.

Chris 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.”

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

“It is sad to hear about the passing of my old teammate Chris Bart-Williams. My prayers are with his family and friends,” said Darren Bent.