Christian Benitez, former Birmingham striker dies at 27

Christian Rogelio Benítez Betancourt, the former Birmingham City striker, has died aged 27.

The news has been confirmed by the Ecuadorean’s club El Jaish Sports Club in Qatar.

A statement read:

“The club would like to offer its sincere condolences to the family of the player.

“Benitez 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..continue.....

“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.”

Christian Benítez, also known as Chucho, was an Ecuadorian footballer who played as a forward for El Jaish of the Qatar Stars League. He began his career with El Nacional in Ecuador and then joined Santos Laguna, with whom he won the award for Best Player of the Clausura 2008. He spent the 2009–10 season on loan to Premier League club Birmingham City. He was a member of the Ecuador national football team.