Birmingham City pay tribute to Christian Benitez

Birmingham City have paid tribute to Christian Benitez following the striker's death at the age of 27.

The Ecuador international, who joined the Blues on a season-long loan deal from Santos Laguna in 2009, passed away on Monday due to reported complications related to appendicitis.

The Championship club tweeted: "The thoughts of all at Birmingham City Football Club are with the friends and family of Chucho following this very sad news.

"The club will be looking to mark the passing of Chucho at St. Andrew's ahead of this Saturday's fixture against Watford."

Benitez scored four goals in 36 games during his time with Birmingham.