Former League of Ireland player Karolis Chvedukas has died suddenly, aged 32.
The news was confirmed today by the Lithuanian Football Association, with the midfielder winning 20 senior caps between 2014 and 2019.
Chvedukas joined Dundalk under Stephen Kenny in 2018 and played his part in their double-winning season, making seven league appearances but missed the FAI Cup final itself through injury.
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The midfielder then joined Waterford and spent two years with the Blues and had been playing club football in Lithuania as recently as last month.
Dundalk said in a statement: “We were shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Karolis Chvedukas this afternoon.”
And Waterford tweeted: “Waterford FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Blues midfielder Karolis Chvedukas.
“The Lithuanian international played 22 times for the club in the 2019 season. Our thoughts are with Karolis’ family and friends. May he rest in peace.”
And the Lithuanian FA said in a statement: "On Monday morning, the Lithuanian football community received tragic news.
“The Lithuanian football player, former member of the national team, Karolis Chvedukas unexpectedly died.
“The Lithuanian Football Federation, on behalf of the entire community, expresses its deepest condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased in this difficult hour.”
