West Ham’s former goalkeeper Pavel Srnicek has died at the age of 47. The former Hammer collapsed with a cardiac arrest while out jogging in the Czech Republic on 20th December. He stopped breathing for 20 minutes before he was revived. Following brain scans a decision was made by his family and doctors to turn off his life support machine his agent confirmed to press this afternoon.
His agent, Steve Wraith said:“It is with deep sadness that I have to announce he passing of Pavel Srnicek. Pavel suffered a cardiac arrest before the Christmas period in his home country and had been in an induced coma in hospital with his close family around his bedside.”
“Despite the best medical attention the final brain scans on Monday showed irreversible damage and the decision had to be taken to switch off the life support machine. Pav passed away on the afternoon of Tuesday 29th December 2015, with his family by his side.”
Srníček joined West Ham on a one-month loan deal from parent club Portsmouth on 19th February 2004. He made his debut against rivals Millwall as a substitute, following the sending off of goalkeeper Stephen Bywater, Srníček moved to West Ham on a free permanent transfer, signing a contract until the end of the 2004 season. He started two matches in Bywater’s absence, against Derby and Palace. He played no further games for West Ham and left the club at the end of the season at which point he was released later rejoining Newcastle for a second spell at the club.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
Sad day and so young,
RIP
My thoughts are with your family
God bless .
Thoughts for pavel and family.
To young to be taken from them .
I remember him like yesterday cannot believe he is gone.
RIP Pavel
Sad coincidence that we’ve had two ex-keepers die of heart attacks.
Much too sad ! Too many go so young .
RIP and thoughts with his family .
R.I.P. Pavel Srníček.