Former Kumasi Asante Kotoko striker Stephen Owusu has died at the 37 Military Hospital after a long battle with an unspecified disease.

The 37 year old striker died on Saturday evening at the Military Hospital after the said aliment forced him to truncate his footballing career in Kenya.

He was part of the Tusker FC squad that won the 2016 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) as well as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Shield Cup in the same year.

After a poor 2017 season in the Kenyan top-tier, Owusu was among the 14 players released by coach Robert Matano

Owusu's last assignment in Kenyan football was in the National Super League (NSL) with Nairobi Stima.

"I am left with no words," Tusker FC media liaison officer Dianah Yonah posted on her Facebook account. "[Rest in peace] Owusu, [double double] champion. Until we meet again.

Herbert Mwachro, who lost in the recently held FKF elections also tweeted his condolence message after learning of the former striker's demise.

"Football is poorer without you," the former FKF Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) tweeted.

The 37 year old began his football career at lower-tier side Prestea Mine Stars in Ghana back in 2001 before joining Asante Kotoko a year later until 2005.

He later joined Hearts of Lions in 2006 before moving to  Tunisia side Esperance .

Owusu also had stints with Nigerian outfit Sharks FC and Ghanaian side Aduana Stars before beginning his Kenyan adventure.