MADRID, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Tributes have poured in for former Spain international winger, Jose Antonio Reyes who died in a traffic accident on Saturday morning.
The 35-year-old was killed along with two of his cousins when the car they were travelling in went off the road and caught fire after he had trained with his current club, Extremadura.
Reyes began his career with Sevilla before joining Arsenal in 2004 where he formed part of their 'Invincibles' squad. He then spent time with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid before returning to Sevilla and spending time with Espanyol, Cordoba and Chinese club, Xinjiang Tianshan Leopard.
"We couldn't be confirming worse news. Beloved Sevilla star Jose Antonio Reyes has died in a traffic collision. Rest in peace," tweeted Sevilla, while his current club also confirmed the player's death.
"With a broken heart, Extremadura UD announce the death of their player Jose Antonio Reyes in a traffic accident," tweeted the club which plays in the Spanish second division (Liga 123).
Atletico and Real Madrid also both expressed their condolences with Atletico posting, "The Atletico de Madrid family is in mourning. Our former player Jose Antonio Reyes has passed away. You will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace."
The Spanish Football League (LaLiga) has postponed seven games due to be played on Sunday for 48 hours as a mark of respect.
Meanwhile Reyes' former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry described Reyes as "a wonderful player, superb teammate and exceptional human being," while the club's current coach Unai Emery, who coached Reyes at Sevilla said he was "deeply sad and speechless after hearing this tragic news. I will never forget your magic and your smile Jose, never. It was an honour to be by your side."
Meanwhile Arsene Wenger, who signed Reyes for Arsenal said he was "devastated to hear the terrible news about Jose. To his family and friends, all support from everyone in the Arsenal family. He will remain forever in our hearts."
