Former Hearts midfielder Stefano Salvatori dies at 49

Hearts Scottish Cup winning legend Stefano Salvatori has died at the age of 49 following an illness.

The Italian joined the Jambos back in 1998 from Atalanta, and went on to make 84 appearances for the club.

He wrote his name into Jambos folklore in 1998, being part of the squad that beat Rangers 2-1 in the Scottish Cup final to lift the trophy.

The club has paid tribute to him saying in a statement they are "deeply saddened" to learn of his passing.

The midfielder also had a successful career in Italy, playing for the likes of Milan and Fiorentina, before finishing his career at Legnano in 2002.