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    Footballer tragically dies at 26 after medical emergency just before stepping onto pitch as match abandoned

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    A BRAZILIAN footballer has died moments before he was set to play a match.Tributes have poured in for Gabriel Popo after he passed away aged 26.Gabriel Popo has passed away aged 26Popo was about to play in a match for XV de Jau against Uniao Suzano, which was abandoned following the incident.The midfielder suffered a medical emergency and was rushed to hospital in Sao Paulo, but died.His club paid tribute in a statement which read: “Gabriel Popo: forever in our history and in our hearts. 🕊️💚💛”Nothing prepares us for goodbyes like this. Popo left us too soon, but his joy, his talent and his passion for football will remain alive in each one of us.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Popo, we will play, we will wear this jersey and we will come back stronger for you!”Brazilian clubs have paid tribute to Popo including Paulista FC and Rio Branco Sports Club.Fans have also honoured him with kind words with one saying: “Very sad. May God comfort everyone’s hearts.”Another said: “My condolences to the family, friends and the entire Quinzano nation. This is very sad 🙏🏻😔”Most read in FootballA third wrote: “Forever in our hearts popĂł 🖤😭”And another commented: “Rest in peace popó🖤🕊️”‘I’ve never seen anything like this’ – Boss pushes Marcelo back to bench after Brazil legend REFUSES his pre-sub tactics More

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      Man Utd, Everton and Alan Shearer lead tributes as much-loved Scottish football writer Patrick Barclay dies at 77

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      MAN UTD, Everton and a host of English Premier League clubs led the tributes after the death of respected Scottish football journalist Patrick Barclay at the age of 77.Massive football names such as Alan Shearer and Robbie Fowler also paid tribute to Barclay, who grew up in Dundee and started his career in journalism at the Dundee Evening Telegraph.Patrick Barclay presents Wayne Rooney with his Football Writers’ awardCredit: PAChairman of the FWA Patrick Barclay presents the trophy to Gordon BanksCredit: PAHe stayed a Dundee fan all his days but was best known for his work south of the border where he worked for the Independent, the Guardian/Observer, the Times and the Telegraph.He also wrote biographies on Jose Mourinho and Alex Ferguson and for many he will be best known for his contributions to the Sunday Supplement newspaper review show on Sky Sports.The Football Writers’ Association south of the border wrote: “It is with the greatest sadness that we must announce the death of our dear Patrick Barclay. “A celebration of Patrick’s life will be held at a later date. Meanwhile, we hope that the family’s wish for privacy is respected.”Shearer wrote: “Ah no. Such sad news. RIP Paddy.”Fowler shared his condolences with a broken heart emoji: “A great man…RIP Patrick.”Man Utd wrote on social media: “Paddy will always be held in great esteem by everyone at Manchester United and we send our sympathies to his loved ones at this time.”Fulham Football Club added: “We’re so sorry to hear this sad news about Paddy. Most read in Football”Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family and all who knew him.”And Barclay’s beloved Dundee wrote: “Everyone at Dundee Football Club was saddened to learn of the passing of journalist and Dundee supporter Patrick Barclay. Iconic Scottish boss Jim Duffy opens up on nearly signing Paul Gascoigne for DUNDEE, friendship with GIanluca Vialli and arriving at Hibs via helicopter”The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Patrick’s family and friends at this sad time.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Ronnie Boyce dead aged 82: West Ham lead tributes to cup-winning hero who played with Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst

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      WEST HAM legend Ronnie Boyce has sadly passed away aged 82.The icon scored the winner in the FA Cup final in 1964 and then helped them win the European Cup Winners’ Cup a year later.West Ham icon Ronnie Boyce has sadly diedCredit: PA:Empics SportBoyce [front centre] won two cups with the Irons as a playerCredit: PABoyce was also a member of the coaching staff when the Hammers lifted the FA Cup in 1975 and 1980 – before taking charge of one game as caretaker manager in 1990.His family penned a touching tribute, which read: “We are so very sad to confirm that our beloved husband, father and grandfather Ronnie passed away peacefully on Thursday afternoon.“He fought illness in recent years with typical courage, bravery and no fuss, and with such strength. “His nickname of ‘Ticker’, as the strong heartbeat of West Ham’s team in the 1960s, could not have been more appropriate.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He was a Hammer all of his life, from growing up in East Ham to representing the Club as a player and coach across 34 years of dedicated service, and always had time for the fans and people who gave him so much support throughout his time in football.“He never boasted about his wonderful playing career or achievements.”But he was so proud of the fact that he scored the winning goal in West Ham United’s first-ever FA Cup victory, and his love of the Club and the supporters meant so much to him.“As a family, we were even prouder of the love, support and dedication he gave us all, and of the quiet, honest, decent man that he was. We will miss him greatly and he will never be forgotten.”Most read in FootballThe Hammers added: “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at West Ham United are with Ronnie’s wife Dawn, his sons Gary and Tony, daughter-in-laws Ewa and Sarah, grandsons Ross, Ben, Jack, Elliott and Tom, and all of his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.”Further tributes to Ronnie will appear across Club channels in the coming days and at London Stadium on Saturday ahead of our Premier League fixture against Brentford.”Devastated fans wrote online: “RIP. A genuine West Ham legend.”Another commented: “Sleep tight, Ticker. A fine footballer and a wonderful gentleman.”Boyce played alongside World Cup winners Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters at Upton Park.He was handed a lifetime achievement award by West Ham in 2019. More

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      Football legend Gary Shaw’s will revealed after star died aged 63 ‘banging head while getting out of cab on night out’

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      FOOTBALL legend Gary Shaw left nearly ÂŁ300,000 after he died without writing a will.The Aston Villa striker, who died last September aged 63 after banging his head while getting out of a taxi, had no children, no siblings and never married.The former striker was part of the Villa side that won the First Division and the European CupCredit: GettyGary Shaw later worked as a club ambassadorCredit: RexHe did not draw up any wishes for his net worth when he passed.It means the European Cup-winning ace’s entire estate will be managed by a lawyer for the benefit of Michael Measey – believed to be one of Shaw’s friends or relatives.His estate was valued at ÂŁ297,000 but ÂŁ10,000 was deducted for fees, funeral costs and legal bills.Thousands of people a year die intestate, meaning they have no will, and their estate is typically passed by a court to either their spouse or closest living blood relative.Read more on Gary ShawThe High Court signed off his estate on February 10 and Michael Measey was named as administrator.Shaw rose through the ranks at his boyhood club and netted 79 goals in 213 games for Villa from 1978 to 1988.He scooped the Professional Footballers’ Association Young Player of the Year in 1981 and European Young Player of the Year in 1982, the year his side won the UEFA Cup.He was so well-liked that when Villa beat Barcelona to win the European Super Cup, Diego Maradona asked for his shirt.Most read in FootballThe Argentine great sent one of Barca’s staff to Villa’s dressing room with his shirt, with orders to bring back Shaw’s jersey as a swap.But Villa’s kit man refused the deal because the tops were too expensive to give away.The former England Under-21s striker also played for Blackpool, Walsall, Kilmarnock and Shrewsbury Town.Ron Greenwood named Shaw in his preliminary squad for the 1982 World Cup in Spain but axed him from his final selection.England were dumped out after goalless draws with Germany and Spain, and Shaw never earned a full international cap. After retirement, he worked as a statistical analyst and was a club ambassador at Villa Park meeting fans in the ground’s hospitality section.He sold his tranche of trophies and medals to a private buyer in 2018.The ace had been out drinking with friends on September 5 and was found by a neighbour collapsed on the pavement near his house at 1am the next morning, an inquest heard.It’s believed he fell and hit his head, causing a fatal injury.A coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death.He was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital but died from his injury 11 days later with his family by his side.Crowds assembled at the stadium in October to pay their respects before his funeral at Sutton Coldfield Crematorium, where the service was held.INQUESTBirmingham Coroner’s Court heard how the 63-year-old former footballer was found collapsed in the street by a neighbour after he had fallen and hit his head on a kerb.After the accident on September 6 last year, he passed away surrounded by his family 10 days afterwards.The inquest was told Shaw had been for a night out at the Jam House in the centre of Birmingham and was put in a taxi by friends at around 1.30am.However, as he exited the cab, he fell and hit his head on a kerb before being found by a neighbour in the early hours.They then phoned an ambulance and the 1982 European Cup winner was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.However, his condition deteriorated and he died ten days later on September 16 after suffering the “severe head injury”.Birmingham Coroner Louise Hunt recorded that Shaw died as a result of an accident.She said: “Mr Shaw had been out for the night drinking with friends on September 5.”In the early hours of September 6 and made his way home in a taxi.”He was found collapsed on the pavement outside his home address having fallen and hit his head.”He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he was found to have a severe head injury as a result of the fall which resulted in his death on September 16.”Philip Cutler, his brother-in-law, said in a statement how Gary had been out for the evening at the club.He confirmed that Gary was put into a taxi by friends at 1.30am and after getting out of the taxi, fell and hit his head on the kerb, rendering him unconscious.Philip said it was then sometime between 2am and 3am he was found and an ambulance called.A doctor said in a statement Gary had suffered an extensive and diffused head injury and that no surgical intervention was possible.He was then stabilised and put on the critical care unit.The doctor added Gary had a CT scan on September 9 which showed a deterioration in the brain, and his death was a result of a severe head injury caused by the fall.He also said that hypertension was a contributory factor, and a toxicological report showed that the ex-player had an alcohol reading of 221 milligrams per 100 millilitres.After his death, ex-Villa and England star Jack Grealish led tributes, writing: “RIP Gary Shaw. What an absolute legend and an unbelievable player.“Sending all my thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones”.Match of the Day host Gary Lineker added: “Very sad. RIP Gary”.A Villa club statement read: “Gary was one of our own, a talented striker who delighted supporters with his goalscoring exploits which helped fire Villa to success in the 1980s.”Individual accolades would also follow for a player who was idolised by many on the terraces.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He passed away peacefully earlier today surrounded by his family, who asked Aston Villa to release a statement on their behalf. “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Gary’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time.”Shaw died 11 days after sustaining a head injury in a fallCredit: Rex More

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      Tony Bedeau dead at 45: Torquay United legend who came through Chelsea’s books dies as club left ‘shocked’

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      FORMER football star Tony Bedeau has died at the age of just 45.Tributes have poured in for the ex-Chelsea youth player and Torquay United legend from team-mates and fans.Former football star Tony Bedeau has died at the age of just 45Credit: PA:Press AssociationBedeau is most remembered for his two spells with TorquayCredit: GettyBedeau passed away from a medical issue at his home in west London, according to reports.As a mark of respect, Torquay will hold a minute’s applause before kick-off against Hornchurch at Plainmoor on Saturday.A club statement read: “Tony’s passing has shocked all of us, and our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”Co-chairman Michael Westcott said: “Tony was one of the most exciting players to have worn the yellow shirt – and one of my personal favourites. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”His pace and energy brought so much to the team, and he was much loved by our fans.””We are deeply saddened by his passing. He will forever be a part of Torquay United’s legacy, and we offer our sincerest condolences to his family and all those who knew him.”Bedeau started his career with Torquay – making his debut at 16 years old – having previously been on the books at Chelsea. He was born in Hammersmith and represented Grenada – through his father’s birthplace – four times at international level.Most read in FootballThe ex-striker scored 65 goals in 374 appearances during two spells with Torquay.That total places him eighth on United’s all-time appearance list.Bedeau joined the Gulls as an apprentice in 1995 and helped them finish third in what is now League Two in 2004.He left the club in 2006 to join Walsall but returned to Plainmoor a year later before ending his career at non-league Kingstonian.Renowned for his pace and flair, Bedeau was revered as one of the best strikers to play for Torquay.‘Beds’, as he was known at Plainmoor, played in the 1998 Play-Off Final at Wembley and was close to big-money moves to Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday.Tributes have flooded in from fans and retired players.Former semi-pro footballer James Constable – who now works as a player liaison at Oxford United – wrote on X: “Heartbreaking to hear of the passing of ex team-mate and friend Tony Bedeau.”He will be missed by everyone who knew him, honestly one of the nicest guys you could meet. RIP Beds.”One supporter added: “One of the first footballers I remember watching live. Cult hero for Torquay in the late 90s/00s.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile a Walsall fan said: “Tony Bedeau helped give me one of the greatest seasons of my life. It is a sad day.”Walsall stated: “Our thoughts are with Tony’s friends, family and everyone at Torquay.” More

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      Mark Weinman dead at 62: Boxer who amazingly came out of 21-year retirement aged 50 and WON fight dies

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      BOXER Mark Weinman has died at the age of 62.The American star passed away in Mesa, Arizona, on Saturday, his brother has confirmed.Boxer Mark Weinman has passed awayWeinman died as a result of complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a respiratory illness he was diagnosed with over a decade ago.The boxer turned pro in the 1980s and won his first 11 fights before losing three straight bouts and stepping away from the ring.He then made a triumphant return in 2012 against then-32-year-old Elvis Martinez and won after 39 seconds.Weinman lost his following fight and subsequently hung up his gloves for good.READ MORE ON BOXINGHe finished with a professional record of 12-4 with 10 knockouts.His former promoter, Steve Tannenbaum, said he looked like a “world beater” in his early years.Tannenbaum revealed: “He was known in the gyms all around. I mean, he fought everybody.”He would beat everybody in the gyms. Just beat them up. He was that good.”Most read in BoxingWeinman was diagnosed with IPF around 12 years ago and was given three-to-five years to live. His brother, David, admitted: “He never stopped loving boxing.”He chased boxing to the end. Just the other day, he was talking about coming home and getting strong and maybe teaching some boxing classes when he was older. He never talked about dying.”He was going to live forever. He did not acknowledge — we never had a conversation about him dying.” More

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      Alex Ferguson pays emotional tribute to Man Utd legend Denis Law as he joins Rooney and Neville at funeral

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      SIR Alex Ferguson has paid an emotional tribute to Manchester United legend Denis Law – as he was joined by Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney at his funeral.The last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinity passed away on January 17 aged 84 after a battle with dementia.Former MUFC manager Sir Alex FergusonCredit: GoffThe coffin leaving Manchester CathedralCredit: PAManchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit Gary NevilleCredit: SplashWayne Rooney arrivesCredit: SplashLaw’s coffin is carried into the cathedralCredit: PAThe funeral cortege leaves Old Trafford as fans line up to pay respectsCredit: AFPA portrait of Denis Law inside Manchester CathedralCredit: PP.A copy of the order of service for the funeralCredit: GettyThe former striker’s cortege left the club’s Old Trafford stadium at around 1.10pm before making its way to Manchester Cathedral for the funeral service.His coffin was then carried inside, with his daughter Diane Law among those seen arriving.Ex-United defender and Sky Sports pundit Neville, as well as former teammates Wayne Rooney, Nicky Butt, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel, and their treble-winning manager Sir Alex, are all in attendance.David Beckham’s dad Ted has also been snapped outside the church, as has ex-footballer and TV personality Dion Dublin and ex-Scotland internationals Eddie Gray and Kenny Dalglish.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSir Alex has been described as “visibly emotional” as he stood at the lectern to read a tribute during the service, according to a reporter in attendance.’WITH A HEAVY HEART’Law’s heartbroken family said in a statement last month: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.”We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. “We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”Most read in FootballBallon d’Or winner Law started his career at Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.Sir Bobby Charlton, Law and George Best were integral as the Red Devils become the first English side to win the European Cup.Man U said in a statement: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84.Man Utd legend Denis Law reveals he is suffering from dementia aged 81 “With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players.”The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation.”Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”Best, Law and Charlton together scored 665 goals in 1,636 games for the club.And each won the Ballon d’Or between 1964-68 — with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 the only United player to do it since.The footballing legend scored 30 goals in 55 games for Scotland.The United trio of David Beckham, Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney were among figures from around the world of football to pay their respects to the Scot.READ MORE SUN STORIESBecks wrote on his Instagram page: “Tonight we lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis’s family.”Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off.”Law’s daughter Diane LawCredit: PP.A note left from musician Sir Rod StewartCredit: ReutersTom Heaton, Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire arriving at Manchester CathedralCredit: PALiverpool legend Kenny DalglishCredit: GoffPaul Scholes arrivesCredit: AlamyEx-United and Denmark keeper Peter SchmeichelCredit: AlamyEx-MUFC midfielder Nicky ButtCredit: SplashRuud van Nistelrooy arrivesCredit: ReutersA mourner holds an order of serviceCredit: SplashMourners arrive at the cathedral before the funeralCredit: ReutersFormer footballer and Homes Under the Hammer host Dion DublinCredit: SplashEamonn Holmes arrives at for the funeralCredit: GoffDavid Beckham’s dad TedCredit: SplashFlowers have been laid for Law at the Holy Trinity statue outside Old TraffordCredit: ReutersA note left to the football legend left outside the Manchester United groundCredit: LNPFlowers and tributes left outside Old Trafford todayCredit: LNPManchester United paid tribute to their former star in a post on XCredit: X/ManUtdFabulous tributes paid to Denis Law in serviceSome in the service were moved to tears, reports the BBC, when his daughter Diana spoke about him being reunited in heaven with George Best, Sir Bobby Charlton and Sir Matt Busby.Copy linkCopiedLaw ‘loved beating England’Also speaking at the service, Sir Alex Ferguson said: “Trying to place Denis in the pantheon of all time greats is a challenge. But it is made easier by Pele.”He was asked if there was a British player who could get in the [great] Brazil team. He said Denis Law – which is a fantastic tribute.”Sir Alex went on to say he often wondered why supporters called him The King, and came to the conclusion “it was to do with his profile”.”He would fight his granny for a goal,” he said.”He had so much courage. A skinny guy standing amongst all those big defenders.”Sir Alex continued: “He loved Scotland and he loved beating England.”He once lined up before a game against England. He loved Nobby Stiles and Nobby worshipped him. Nobby came bounding down the tunnel and wished Denis all the best.”Denis gave him a withering look and let off a volley of abuse Nobby never forgot.”Sir Alex Ferguson arriving at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Copy linkCopied’Dad used to travel back to Aberdeen every weekend’Law’s daughter Diana told the congregation her father used to travel back to his hometown in Scotland every weekend after first meeting his wife – also named Diana – but only with his manager Sir Matt Busby’s permission.She said: “There were rumours he sometimes took an early bath to get back quicker. I don’t believe that.”And I don’t believe either that he deliberately got sent off just before Christmas so he could have Christmas off.”Copy linkCopiedMan Utd CEO attends serviceOmar Berrada is among those attending today’s funeral.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedFloral tribute to ‘the King’Hundreds of floral tributes have been left across Manchester, including this one from Man Utd.Credit: REUTERSCopy linkCopiedFergie overcome as he reads tribute to his hero Sir Alex Ferguson has become visibly emotional while paying tribute to Denis Law, writes Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst), chief Man Utd writer for Manchester Evening News.Copy linkCopiedDenis Law’s daughter has arrived for the funeralDiane Law, the daughter of Denis Law, at the funeral.Copy linkCopied’My footballing hero’ – Sir Rod Stewart’s tender note to LawScottish football fan Sir Rod has sent this note to Denis Law’s funeral.Credit: REUTERSCopy linkCopiedPiper accompanies funeral as coffin arrives at cathedralThe coffin of former Manchester United and Scotland forward Denis Law has arrived at Manchester Cathedral.Credit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedRooney arrives for funeralWayne Rooney is among those to have arrived for the funeral in the past few minutes. Other recent arrivals include Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes and current beleagured Utd head coach Ruben Amorim, below.Copy linkCopied’Thanks for the memories’Fans have been leaving tributes to ‘The King’ all day, including these, left outside the Holy Trinity statue at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedNeville, Scholes and Schmeichel arrive for funeralUtd legends Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Peter Schmeichel, pictured, are the latest legends to arrive for the service. Also in attendance is Scotland and Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, bottom.Credit: ALAMYCopy linkCopiedFans pay respect to Law as funeral cortege passes Old TraffordHere is a poignant moment from Manchester as fans outside the ground pay tribute to the legend.The funeral cortege of Denis Law passes by Old Trafford, as fans pay their respects, below,Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedNicky Butt arrives for funeralFormer Utd player Butt, below, is among those to have arrived recently for the funeral.Copy linkCopiedMore Utd legends arrive for the funeralSir Alex Ferguson, Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Bryan Robson, below, are among those to have arrived for the funeral.Sir Alex Ferguson arriving at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Credit: ALAMYGeorge Best’s son Calum arrives for the service.Copy linkCopiedOrder of service for Law as more fans arrive outside servicePoignant images are starting to arrive from outside Manchester Cathedral, including this one of the order of service, below, while more fans, bottom, arrive to pay their respects to the Utd legend.Copy linkCopiedBecks’ dad arrives for funeralDavid Beckham’s dad Ted has arrived for the funeral.Ted Beckham arrives at Manchester Cathedral for the funeral of Denis Law.Credit: PETER POWELLCopy linkCopiedFans arrive at Manchester Cathedral ahead of funeralHere’s the first pic of fans arriving for the funeral of Denis Law.Meanwhile, David Beckham’s dad Ted has also been photographed outside the funeral.Copy linkCopiedOne legend to anotherSir Alex Ferguson pays tribute to Denis Law before the start of the English Premier League game between Utd and Brighton at the Old Trafford stadium last month.Copy linkCopiedFloral tributes to Law at Old TraffordFans have started arriving at Old Trafford to pay tribute to Denis Law, whose funeral is taking place today.One fan puts down some red roses in memory of Denis Law today at Old Trafford.A portrait of Fomer Manchester United and Scotland footballer Denis Law inside Manchester Cathedral.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd flag at half mastManchester United flag is flying at half-mast at Old Trafford today in the memory of former Scotland and Manchester United footballer Denis Law, on the day of his funeralCopy linkCopiedHistory of a Scottish legend – who never played for a Scottish clubBorn in Aberdeen in February 1940, Law never actually played for a Scottish club. Instead he joined Huddersfield straight from school in 1955 before moving to Manchester City five years later for a then British record fee of ÂŁ55,000. Copy linkCopied More

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      Devonte Aransibia dead at 26: Tributes pour in as former Norwich star and non-league footballer passes away

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      FOOTBALL star Devonte Aransibia has passed away aged just 26.Tributes have poured in for the former Norwich and Maidstone player from team-mates and fans.Devonte Aransibia has passed away aged just 26A statement on the page read: “It is with heavy hearts that we come together to honour the life of Dev, a loving partner, devoted father, cherished son, and dear friend to so many.“Dev was the embodiment of kindness and compassion, always ready with a warm smile.“His infectious laughter and generous spirit brightened every room he entered, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.“Beyond his loving nature, Dev was a talented footballer whose passion and drive propelled him to great success on the pitch.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA GoFundMe has been set up in Aransibia’s name by his family.Aransibia began his career at Norwich and featured regularly for their youth teams before leaving the club in 2018.He had a brief stint at Billericay Town and then spent a few years out of the game before playing for Chelmsford and Welling United.A move to Tonbridge Angels followed where he played more regularly and earned a move to Maidstone United.Most read in FootballHe played a part in their magnificent cup run last season, scoring in the opening round win over Chesham, with the Stones going on to beat Championship Ipswich.Aransibia left Maidstone midway through the campaign and played for Braintree before returning to Tonbridge.I was going to the toilet 40 times a day – FA Cup star opens up on his bowel disease tormentHe started this season at Chesham but made just two appearances.Tributes have poured in including from former team-mates with ex-Tonbridge star Joe Boachie saying: “I can’t believe it. RIP Devonte.”Jordan Greenidge said: “Rest in peace Dev.”Samuel Cox wrote: “Such sad news. Part of our Welling Unitedcar school where we shared so many good memories. RIP Devonte, gone way too soon. 💔🕊️” More

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      ‘People are scared to death’ – David May admits he knows of ‘four or five’ ex-Man Utd stars who are battling dementia

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      MANCHESTER UNITED cult hero David May has admitted that football players are “scared to death of getting dementia” – himself included.Ex-defender May revealed that he personally knows of around “four or five” former United stars from the 70s and 80s with the disease.David May has admitted that professional football players are ‘scared to death of dementia’Credit: PAMay told The Telegraph: “Dementia is an industrial injury. “I speak to players now and they say, ‘Have you been tested?’ They say, ‘No I don’t want to find out’. “People are absolutely scared to death of finding out.”Former team-mate David Beckham was among those who sent a message of support at the group launch of Football Families for Justice last month.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe organisation is demanding urgent action to tackle the beautiful game’s dementia crisis.May added: “Three or four nights before the launch all I could think of is, ‘Oh my God, this will happen to me’. “All I can think if I go in the kitchen and forget something is, ‘Have I got dementia?’ Once that’s passed, I’m fine again. But just those thoughts go through your mind.“I’m 55 this year. I don’t want my kids in 10 years’ time having to look after me, not being able to speak to them and understand them. Most read in Football“I would wish they could come once a week, twice a week, see their dad, know that I’m well cared for.”May decided to become involved after speaking with John Stiles, the son of 1966 World Cup winner Nobby.England and Man Utd legend Stiles died from a neurodegenerative disease associated with head impacts that leads to dementia in October 2020.Former Premier League star Dean Windass suffering from dementia as ex-Man Utd ace reveals diagnosis live on BBC You look at the 80s and 90s – it was, ‘get on with it lads’ and that’s what we did. David MayDefenders are FIVE times more likely to be diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease, than someone who is not a professional player, according to research commissioned by the FA in 2017.The landmark study by the University of Glasgow also found no decline in that ratio through the eras.Professor Willie Stewart isolated the link last year to heading and head impacts, rather than any outside lifestyle factor.May said that players would take aerial blows “all the time” whether from heading, elbows or clashes of heads.Denis Law and Bobby Charlton both passed away after long battles with dementiaHe revealed: “There’s quite a few players involved in the group who played in the 1980s who talk about their ex team-mates – I’m not going to name names – who are struggling with dementia.“I remember playing for Burnley against Stoke – I got a bang on the head and I can’t even remember who did it.“You look at the 80s and 90s – it was, ‘get on with it lads’ and that’s what we did. It’s like getting punched off a professional boxer at 80 per cent.David May“You’d probably get two or three free hits before you got spoken to and you would pass it to your other centre-half. And they would do it back to you. It would be a free-for-all.“When I look at the amount of times I must have headed a ball in training, before a game, during a game, as a kid, you are talking thousands and thousands.“I would do 30-40 headers on a Friday – corners and free-kicks. They say that each heading of a ball whether from a goalkeeper or long free-kick is like getting punched off a professional boxer at 80 per cent.”May won seven major honours with Man Utd during the 90sCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdMay, who started in Man Utd’s FA Cup final-winning teams of 1996 and 1999, has not called for a ban on heading.But the Treble winner wants current players to be fully informed of the risks and for sport to collectively step forward for its former heroes.May revealed that ex-Hull star Dean Windass was diagnosed with stage-two dementia at the age of 55 last month.With permission from Windass, May said: “I asked Deano how he is. “He’s the same age as me and he’s worried sick of how it’s going to be in the future for him.”An application to the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council to prescribe neurodegenerative disease in professional football as an industry-related disease has also just passed its fifth anniversary without resolution.Man Utd and Scotland icon Denis Law sadly lost his brave battle with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease last month.While Old Trafford and England legend Sir Bobby Charlton had dementia when he died from a fall at his care home, a 2023 inquest heard.The FA did introduce guidance in 2021 that recommended no more than 10 “high-force” headers in training per week. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe PFA is currently working with more than 200 families of former players with dementia.Tony Parkes and Allan Gilliver are two former stars currently suffering with it, while legends Chris Nicholl and Stan Bowles tragically passed away on the same day last year – February 24.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. 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