RIP LEGEND
Scottish football cult hero who also played for Arsenal dies aged 46 after suddenly collapsing during futsal match
Tributes have poured in for the popular ex-player
FORMER Dundee star Fabián Caballero has died at the age of 46.
He made 142 appearances for the Dee and scored 27 goals between 2000 and 2004, joining a year after a brief stint at Arsenal had ended.
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Caballero played for a number teams in Paraguay and also spent time in Argentina (where he was born), Greece, Cyprus, South Korea and Guatamala and earned the nickname Tyson during his career.
It's understood Caballero collapsed whilst playing futsal with some friends in the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion.
The Paraguayan FA said in a statement: "The Paraguayan Football Association deeply regrets the passing of former footballer, Fabián Caballero, who had an outstanding career both in Paraguayan football and abroad. We accompany the family and friends in this difficult time."
Caballero was a fan favourite at Dundee.
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He turned out in dark blue turning out alongside other cult heroes of that time such as Claudio Caniggia, Juan Sara and Nacho Novo.
A statement from Dens Park read: "All at Dundee Football Club are extremely shocked and saddened this morning to learn of the passing of former Dundee player Fabián Caballero.
"Fabián passed away at the age of 46 and will be greatly missed by everyone at Dundee Football Club. Fabián signed for The Dee in July 2000 and became a fan’s favourite amongst the Dundee supporters.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Fabián’s family at this very sad time.
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"The club will issue a full tribute to Fabián later today.
"Rest in peace Fabián."
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Arsenal said: "Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our former player, Fabian Caballero. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."
Former Rangers star Gavin Rae, another big part of that team, said: "Rip big man. Thanks for the memories. Was a pleasure."
Former Dee team mate Steve Lovell said: "I am devastated to hear the news of Fabián’s passing. He was a fan favourite and it’s easy to see why. He was such a gifted player and I never had the privilege of playing with someone quite like him again. RIP Fab."
One Dundee fan paid his respects by quoting the song the fans had for him, saying: "One of my first footballing heroes and the first player I had on the back of my top. Thanks for the memories FabCab.
"He came down from heaven to wear number 7, he’s Fabián Caballero."
Another supporter said: "Absolutely gutted to wake up to the news of Fabián Caballero’s passing. An exceptional football player who I have no doubt would’ve reached top tier football again but for his injury. RIP Caballero."
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A third said: "It's heartening to see the world of football pause to remember Fabián Caballero. He was a true talent and will surely be missed."
A Dundee United fan also paid tribute: "Rivalry and banter aside, shocked to hear of the passing of ex Dundee player Fabián Caballero! He was one of the best players I ever saw play against us for Dundee! RIP big man!"
Caballero first came to Europe in 1998 when he sealed a loan deal with Arsenal from Cerro Porteño as a 21-year-old.
He only played for the Gunners three times, once in the Premier League, and the move was never made permanent and he returned to Paraguay.
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But he still managed to make a somewhat lasting impression during his time in north London,
He infamously elbowed a defender to the floor in an FA Cup tie against Preston that inadvertently led to an assist for an Emmanuel Petit goal.
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