Footballer Christian Benitez passes away after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest!

Former Birmingham City and Ecuadorian strike Christian Benitez passed away on Monday after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest while playing for his new Qatari club Al Jaish. Benitez was admitted to a hospital with severe stomach pain after making his against Qatar Sports club and passed away shortly afterwards.

An Ecuador Football Federation (FEF) statement read: 'The FEF regrets to inform you of the death of Christian Ben tez, the striker of Qatar club Al Jaish and the Ecuador national team. 'Ben tez, who was with his new club in Qatar, had a severe stomach pain, which was why he was rushed to a hospital, where after a few hours suffered he suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest, which ended his life. 'The Ecuadorian Football Federation extends its heartfelt sympathy to the family parents, wife, children and friends of our striker Christian Ben tez. 'May he rest in peace.'

Benitez was a regular for his country and made the Ecuador squad for the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany. Al Jaish were stunned at the player's death so soon after his arrival.

A statement read: 'The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player. Ben tez had recently joined the club from Club America for three seasons. The player participated for the first time with the team during yesterday's match against Qatar Sports Club in the Sheikh Jassem Cup without complaining of any health problems.

'His sudden departure is a big shock for each member of the technical and administrative staff. He was a player that over the short period he was here was regarded for his high moral character.'

Tributes were quick to arrive with the Manchester United winger, and Ecuador team-mate, Antonio Valencia tweeting a picture of the pair together. Sunderland midfielder Craig Gardner who played at Birmingham, said on the social networking site: 'Can't believe Christian Ben tez aka chucho has died had the pleasure to play with him he was a top bloke. My thoughts go out to his family.'

A tweet from Club America read: 'You left as a champion, you will always be in our hearts. Rest in Peace Christian Ben tez.' A Birmingham statement read: 'Birmingham City Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of former striker Christian 'Chucho' Ben tez. The thoughts of all associated with the football club are with Chucho's family and friends at this very sad time. 'Chucho's passing will now be marked at St Andrew's ahead of Saturday's fixture against Watford.

'The Ecuador international was an immensely-popular character during his time at the football club. During a season-long loan from Mexican club Santos Laguna in 2009-10, Chucho made 36 appearances scoring four goals.'