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Former Japan forward Masato Kudo has died aged 32 following brain surgery.

Kudo, who was playing for Japanese third-tier club Tegevajaro Miyazaki, fell ill on 2 October and was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid in the ventricles in the brain.

Kudo previously played for Kashiwa Reysol, Vancouver Whitecaps, Sanfrecce Hiroshima and Brisbane Roar.

"We are devastated that such a great player has passed away so early," said a statement by Tegevajaro Miyazaki.

"He played for Japan and had a great track record but he stayed humble.

"He had a great attitude and was caring about his team-mates, the club and supporters."

Kudo scored six goals in 12 games during Kashiwa Reysol's run to the semi-finals of the Asian Champions League in 2013, and scored twice in four appearances for Japan that year.