Ex-Ivory Coast international defender Sol Bamba, who overcame cancer to resume his playing career, died at the age of 39, his former clubs announced on Saturday. “Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of former captain Sol Bamba at the age of 39,” said a statement from the English side. Bamba had been working with the coaching staff at Turkish side Adanaspor when he was taken ill on Friday. “Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there,” said Adanaspor in a statement on social media.