Senegalese football star Papa Bouba Diop has passed away at the age of 42.

His former club, RC Lens, paid tribute on Twitter, writing: “It is with great sadness that Racing Club de Lens has just learned of the passing of its former player Papa Bouba Diop , at the age of 42.

“We offer our deepest condolences to his loved ones.”

According to a number of reports, Bouba Diop had been suffering with a long-time illness, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

The mayor of Mermoz Sacré-Cœur, Barthélémy Dias, paid tribute to Bouba Diop on Sunday, writing on social media: “Thank you GAINDÉ for making us dream so much.

“Your name will forever be engraved in the Football Hall of Fame alongside great legends. May God welcome you in His Paradise.”

Diop became a national hero when he scored the goal which saw Senegal beat France 1-0 in their opening World Cup game in 2002.

Diop won 63 caps for Senegal, scoring 11 goals including his historic World Cup strike.

The former midfielder had played professionally in France, England and Greece.