Wednesday 1 November 2017 20:43, UK
Former Hearts midfielder Stefano Salvatori, a member of the club's Scottish Cup-winning team in 1998, has died at the age of 49.
The former Italy U21 international, who played at Tynecastle between 1996 and 1999, is understood to have been unwell.
A Hearts statement said: "Heart of Midlothian Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Stefano Salvatori.
"The club would like to pass on its condolences to the family and friends of Stefano."
Salvatori came through the youth ranks at AC Milan and had two spells both there and at Fiorentina before his move to Scotland.
While he scored three times in 84 appearances for Hearts, he is known by fans for the role he played in the club's first Scottish Cup win in 42 years almost two decades ago.
Seeking their first major trophy since 1962, Salvatori played the full 90 minutes as the Edinburgh side defeated Rangers 2-1 at Celtic Park.
Paul Ritchie, a team-mate of Salvatori's that day, tweeted: "RIP Stefano. Had the privilege to play with this great. @JamTarts Family. #onceajambo".
Another former team-mate, Gilles Rousset, told the Evening News: "In the dressing-room, he was so popular. He really adapted to the Scottish game and Scottish life. He was very happy in Edinburgh. Just a great player and a great guy.
"He will be remembered as a true Hearts player. He was a real Jambo. He loved Hearts and he will always be cherished by the fans."
