Former Liverpool striker Besian Idrizaj dies aged 22

Swansea City have been shocked by the death of 22-year-old Austrian striker Besian Idrizaj.

The striker is believed to have died in his sleep at his family home in Austria on Friday evening. The cause of his death is currently unknown but reports suggest he suffered a heart attack.

Idrizaj began his career in English football with Liverpool, but he failed to make an impact at Anfield and as a result was sent out on loan to Luton Town, Crystal Palace and Wacker Innsbruck over a two-year period.

In 2008 Idrizaj collapsed during a game while representing Wacker against Sturm Graz. After a thorough investigation medical experts cited a virus as the reason for his collapse, as opposed to heart problems.

He continued to pursue his footballing career and joined Swansea City in August 2009.

Idrizaj made three appearances for the Swans during the 2009-10 campaign. The season finished two weeks ago and Idrizaj returned to his home country for the summer break.

Speaking after Idrizaj’s death, Swansea City boss Paolo Sousa paid tribute to the exciting young prospect. “He was growing and getting better and stronger all the time and I fully expected him to show that talent to everyone in the Championship next season on a regular basis.”

“Everyone in the squad is stunned. It’s just a numb feeling. Nobody can quiet believe what’s happened,” he added.

Idrizaj had represented the Austrian under-21 side on 12 occasions with three goals.