Italy, Fiorentina defender Astori dies aged 31

Fiorentina captain and Italy international Davide Astori has died at the age of 31, reports ESPN.

Fiorentina captain Davide Astori has died aged 31, the Serie A club has confirmed. pic.twitter.com/iWuK85y4PG

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 4, 2018

Fiorentina confirmed the news Sunday morning in a statement posted on the club's official website.

The condolences of everyone at BT Sport are with the family, friends and team-mates of Davide Astori.

1987-2018. pic.twitter.com/Y5sLgtbS7r— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) March 4, 2018

"A profoundly shocked Fiorentina are compelled to announce that their captain Astori, who was struck by an unexpected sudden illness, has passed away," a statement read. "In this terrible and delicate situation, and in particular out of respect for his family, we appeal for everybody to show sensitivity."

Our thoughts are with the family & friends of @ACFFiorentina captain Davide Astori. ?

Who has tragically passed away in his sleep, at the young age of 31. RIP. ? pic.twitter.com/uub5zqeiSI— SPORF (@Sporf) March 4, 2018

The club had been due to play Udinese, but the game has been postponed until a later date, the club confirmed. The game between Genoa and Cagliari has also been called off with more games expected to follow.