A POPULAR footballer has tragically died in a with devastated clubs and friends paying tribute to the sports star.
Kial Thurman, who played for Long Eaton United, died on December 1 at the age of 31.
The club said they were “devastated and saddened” by the news of his passing.
Loyal player Kial had turned out for every youth team, the U19’s, The Reserves and the First Team with Long Eaton.
He was also said to have played a “massive part” in the growth of the youth section.
In a statement, Long Eaton United said: “An extremely popular person who is one of the few who played for all the youth team ages, the U19s, the reserves and the first team.
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“Kial played a massive part in the growth of the youth section and with his family offered support to the football club on and off the pitch.
“All at the football club send their condolences to Kial’s family.”
It was reported that Kial died in a car accident but this is yet to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, The Derby and South Derbyshire Referees Association wrote: “Unfortunately some sad news has emerged today from Sandiacre Town.
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“It has been reported that 1st team player Kial Thurman has passed away following a car accident.
“Derby & South Derbyshire RA send their condolences to Kial’s family, friends and all at Sandiacre Town FC at this desperately sad time. RIP Kial.”
A number of friends have paid tribute on Facebook with one appearing to confirm the “car crash”.
He wrote: “Today I got some awful news about Kial Thurman a highly talented footballer who has been killed in a car crash in Nottingham.
“Kial was an amazingly skillful player. Apart from his football he had a great social life as well.
“He was only 31-years-old and was so popular everywhere he went.”
Another said: “He was one in a million, always happy and always having a laugh.
“I had the pleasure of knowing you and playing on the pitch.
“Side by side we were unstoppable together.
“You will be missed loads my friend, I hope you rest in peace.”
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While a third mourned the loss of a “great man and close friend”.
Tributes have been paid from across the local football world, with the Nottinghamshire FA writing: “Such sad news. Our thoughts are with everyone at the club and Kial’s loved ones.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
