Celebrity deaths

Subterms

    More stories

    • 150 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, what was his cause of death?

      by

      THE football world has been left stunned by the news that Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic played for his country Montenegro last week in a 2-0 defeat to Belgium but was named his side’s man of the match. Matija Sarkic was Millwall’s No 1 keeper throughout the 2023/24 seasonCredit: PAIt’s been reported by RTCG in Montenegro that Sarkic collapsed and fell ill while on holiday and died shortly after.A Millwall statement read: “Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.”Sarkic, The Lions’ number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.”A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.”Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.”The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”Who is Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic, how did he die?Sarkic began his career at Aston Villa before loan moves with Wigan and Stratford Town.It was at Livingston in Scotland where he began to play first team football .Most read in FootballWolves then signed Sarkic in 2020 before he moves on to Shrewsbury and Birmingham on loan.But it was at Millwall and for his countey Montenegro where he made his biggest impact.Last season he was the Lions’ No 1 goalkeeper, making 33 appearances all in all.He made 8 appearances for his country, including him recent friendlies.Montenegrin state-owned TV station RTCG report that Sarkic went for a walk with pals, had dinner in a restaurant and returned to his apartment early.He is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am this morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late. More

    • 175 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Matija Sarkic dead aged 26: Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper tragically dies after ‘short illness’

      by

      MILLWALL goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away aged just 26.The nine-cap Montenegro star reportedly fell ill while on international duty in the town of Budva.Matija Sarkic was Millwall’s No1 keeperCredit: PAThe Montenegro star had a bright future for club and countryCredit: GettySarkic was named man of the match in his final two gamesCredit: GettyMontenegrin state-owned TV station RTCG report that Sarkic went for a walk with pals, had dinner in a restaurant and returned to his apartment early.He is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am this morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late.Millwall confirmed the sad news in a statement, which read: “Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.”Sarkic, The Lions’ No1 goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.read more football news”A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.”Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.”The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”Millwall Supporters’ Club posted on X: “What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the young age of 26. Devastating news for his friends and family and for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion.”Most read in Football”Awful news RIP Matij,” commented one fan.Another added: “Absolutely shocking news, and so young what a huge loss to his family and the football family.”A third posted: “RIP Matija from a Birmingham fan. Great keeper, great bloke. Such awful news.”Sarkic was named man of the match in his last outing for Montenegro as he made nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Euro 2024 hopefuls Belgium.The talented No1 was also handed the honour in Millwall’s final game of the season – a 1-0 win over Swansea.His father Bojan Sarkic is a Montenegrin diplomat and his twin brother Oliver is also a footballer.The attacking midfielder plays for Montenegro outfit Decic having come through Anderlecht and Benfica’s academies.R.I.P Matija Sarkic was only with us for a season but was a great player and got to speak to him at the player awards that season and he was a great guy, loved the fact we turned up with about 10 Montenegro flags behind his goal at cov away. always a blue 🔵#BCFC #MFC pic.twitter.com/We48PqnqKd— Jack 🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@jackil3s) June 15, 2024

      Matija Sarkic played for several clubs in EnglandCredit: GettyThe keeper was a popular figureCredit: GettyMatija also began his career in Anderlecht’s academy before being snapped up by Aston Villa in 2015.The Grimsby-born stopper joined Wolves in 2020 and found form in loan spells with Shrewsbury, Birmingham – where he was named Player of the Season in 2022 – and Stoke.That convinced Millwall to make a permanent move last summer and Sarkic made 33 appearances for the Lions, who won five games in a row to end the season 13th in the Championship.Tributes have flooded in for Sarkic from the football world.Aston Villa posted on X: “Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by news of the passing of our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic. “Matija joined our academy in 2015 and spent five years with the club, during which time he made his full international debut for Montenegro, before departing in the summer of 2020. “The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”The Premier League’s official account added: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Matija’s family and friends, and everyone associated with the club.”Matija Sarkic career stats
      Millwall: 33 games, 12 clean sheets
      Shrewsbury: 29 games, 11 clean sheets
      Birmingham: 23 games, 10 clean sheets
      Livingston: 18 games, nine clean sheets
      Stoke: Eight games, three clean sheets
      Wigan: Three games
      Havant & Waterlooville: One game

      Gillingham posted on X: “Everyone at Gillingham football club would like to send their thoughts and condolences to the friends and family of Matija Sarkic, who has suddenly passed away at the age of 26.”We extend our thoughts and condolences to everyone associated with Millwall FC at this very difficult time.”Gills goalkeeping coach Deren Ibrahim added: Heartbreaking news to wake up to this morning. Thoughts with everyone associated with Millwall FC . From one goalkeeping department to another Matija will be a huge loss.”Fabrizio Romano posted: “Heartbreaking news that Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away, aged 26. Thoughts with family… rest in peace, Matija.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd former club Birmingham wrote: “Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to learn of the news that our former goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, has passed away at the age of 26.”Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all those that knew him.”MATIJA SARKICAll you need to know about his career:
      Clubs:
      Aston Villa (2015-2020)
      Wigan (Loan 2017/2018)
      Stratford Town (Loan 2018/2019)
      Havant & Waterlooville (Loan 2019)
      Livingston (Loan 2019/2020)
      Wolves (2020-2023)
      Shrewsbury (Loan 2020/21)
      Birmingham (Loan 2021/22)
      Stoke (Loan 2023)
      Millwall (2023/24)
      Honours:
      Birmingham City Player of the Season 2022
      International:Montenegro (9 caps) More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Tommy Banks dead at 94: Former England star and Bolton legend dies as tributes pour in

      by

      TOMMY BANKS has died at the age of 94.The Bolton legend was believed to be the oldest former England player before his death.Tommy Banks has died at the age of 94Credit: CollectHe helped Bolton win the FA Cup in 1958Credit: Matthew Pover – The SunBanks will forever be remembered by Bolton fans for playing an important part in the club’s 1958 FA Cup win.The left-back joined the club in 1947 and went on to become a crucial player for the club.He helped Bill Rigging’s team beat Manchester United in the FA Cup final 2-0 in front of 99,000 spectators.Banks also had international recognition as he played six times for England.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis debut for the Three Lions came against the Soviet Union in Moscow.He was also a part of Walter Winterbottom’s squad for the World Cup in 1958.He and fellow Bolton team-mate Eddie Hopkinson were both involved in the tournament in Sweden.Tributes have been paid to Banks on social media.Most read in FootballOne fan posted: “RIP Tommy What a legend. Sending my condolences to your family and friends.”A second wrote: “Rest in peace Tommy.”Inside the ten stunning Euro 2024 stadiums including historic final venueA third commented: “Very sad news. RIP Tommy Banks. Bolton Wanderers Legend.”A fourth said: “A true legend, rest easy Tommy.”Another added: “So sad, RIP Tommy.”Banks left Bolton in 1961 after making 255 appearances for the club.After retiring from football he moved to his home town of Farnworth to focus on the building trade.He also had a spell owning a newsagents and spending time with his family.Bolton also shared its condolences in a statement that read: “Everyone at Bolton Wanderers is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of club legend Tommy Banks, aged 94.”A member of our 1958 FA Cup winning side, Tommy’s name will forever be etched in Wanderers’ history.”Our thoughts are with Tommy’s family and friends.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club will be paying tribute to Banks at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Friday by lowering the flags to half-mast.More to follow…THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

    • 188 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Widow of ex-Premier League star reveals footballer had secret double life & married another woman

      by

      THE widow of a former Premier League star has revealed the footballer led a secret double life and married another woman.Jlloyd Samuel, who died in 2018 at the age of 37 after his Range Rover collided with a van after he had dropped his kids off at school, is profiled in a new documentary on Netflix which launched this week.JLLoyd Samuel with his first wife Emma PritchardCredit: Supplied as a technical service. No is implied or inferred.The Prem star is then said to have married singer Helia Sahimi as his second wifeCredit: InstagramSamuel in action for Bolton Wanderers against Arsenal in September 2008Credit: Getty Images – GettyPritchard says her husband led ‘another life’ in Iran with his second wifeCredit: NetflixThe show, called ‘The Footballer, His Wife and the Crash’, was first screened by ITV in 2022, and tells the story of how Samuel is said to have led a double life.In the 2000s, Samuel played in the Premier League for Aston Villa and Bolton before heading to Iran.Appearing in the programme is his first wife Emma Pritchard who says that Samuel had “another life” in the Middle Eastern country with a second wife, who he married in 2013, having converted to Islam for her.She said: “I was trying to grieve my husband and find he has another life. Who is my husband – do I really know him?”Read More on Jlloyd SamuelThe two women even met while Pritchard was on a trip to Dubai, but the second wife introduced herself as a fortune teller.The second wife turned out to be a singer, Helia Sahimi, who once referred to Samuel as “the best husband I could have ever asked for”.Pritchard, who is mum to Samuel’s three kids, was said to have been in shock after she learned of the relationship, which he maintained until he died.Pritchard said: “About four weeks after Jlloyd’s death, my friend said I’ve got something to tell you.Most read in Football“Jlloyd’s got another wife, another woman, and she’s just plastered herself all over his Instagram as his wife. I threw up everywhere. I said let me see the Instagram and I looked and said ‘oh my god’.”She described the discovery about their relationship as a “stab in the heart”.Some of the best moments from former Aston Villa and Bolton footballer Jlloyd SamuelPritchard admitted she was “obsessed” with the Instagram account of her husband’s secret wife.She said: “There were even shots of Jlloyd that he’d sent to me on trips to Africa, with crocodiles and then I’d see another picture on Helia’s of her with Jloyd in Africa with the crocodiles.“It was like a stab in the heart. I’m trying to grieve for my husband and then I find out he’s got a full-on other life for seven years. Never ever has he asked me for a divorce.“As far as I was concerned we were fine, we were great. The night before he passed away he was swinging me around the kitchen telling me how much he loved me.”Later, Samuel’s sister Leslie-Ann accused Pritchard of faking the former player’s death, even though a coroner ruled the body belonged to the footballer.A 2019 inquest heard that Samuel was more than twice the drink-driving limit when he died.Sahimi, speaking in the documentary, says she believes Samuel is “still alive”.Jlloyd Samuel’s playing career
      As a youngster, he played for Sunday League side Senrab and supported Manchester United.
      The former Trinidad and Tobago international began his career in Charlton’s academy before penning a professional deal with Aston Villa.
      He made almost 200 appearances for the Villans before signing a four-year deal with Bolton in 2007.
      Samuel then spent stints with Cardiff City and Leeds United before ending his playing career in Iran.
      Samuel was born in Trinidad and Tobago but grew up in South East London.
      He was selected by the Three Lions in 2004 after featuring for the U21 squad.
      But he later opted to play for the country of his birth, where he went on to make his debut in 2009.

      Pritchard uses her Instagram account @wagtowidow to detail her grief in the wake of her husband’s death.The couple had three children together – Javarne, Lakyle, and Amara.Lakyle is a footballer who plays for Manchester City.The documentary has picked up praise from viewers on social media.One user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote: “That Jlloyd Samuel Netflix documentary was wild!”Another said: “Jlloyd Samuel is no longer here to answer the many questions.. it’s a crazy situation.”A third posted: “This Jlloyd Samuel documentary on Netflix quickly gets bizarre and then just gets even more bizarre.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile a fourth added: “Has anyone seen the Jlloyd Samuel doc on Netflix? What an utterly mental double life he was leading. Tragic ending but crikey if it was a Hollywood script it would be considered far-fetched.”The Footballer, His Wife, and the Crash is available to stream on Netflix.Pritchard describes learning about her husband’s second marriage as being like stabbed in the heartCredit: Supplied as a technical service. No is implied or inferred.Aston Villa and Middlesbrough pay tribute to Samuel before the game in March 2018Credit: Action ImagesSamuel in action for Villa during a friendly against Wolves in July 2005Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Manfred Wolke dead at 81: Boxing world in mourning as Olympic champion and legendary trainer dies after long illness

      by

      THE BOXING world is mourning the death of Manfred Wolke, who has died aged 81.The former German welterweight had been battling an incurable form of dementia for several years.Manfred Wolke (right) has passed away aged 81Credit: GettyThe legendary German coach and former Olympian died late last month following a long battle with dementiaCredit: AFPWolke won Olympic gold in the 1968 GamesCredit: GettyAnd according to Die Stimme Berlins, he tragically lost his fight with the disease late last month.Tributes began to pour in for the late Wolke as news of his passing was made public.One boxing fan wrote: “The great boxing trainer Manfred Wolke has died. RIP.”Wolke reportedly spent his final days in a care facility in Frankfurt, where his wife Brigitte would regularly visit him.READ MORE IN BOXINGBut as his condition worsened, Brigitte is said to have started restricting the number of visitors he had.His protege Henry Maske, however, was allowed to visit him on his 80th birthday.Fellow coach Ulli Wegner paid tribute to his countryman upon learning of his death.He said: “Manfred has brought German professional boxing back to the top. Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe late Manfred Wolke helped guide his protege Henry Maske to the IBF heavyweight titleCredit: AFP”That is his achievement.”The late Wolke trained as a train mechanic before fully throwing himself into boxing.Tyson Fury must BANISH dad John from ringside to beat Usyk in rematch, says Sun Boxing reporterHe excelled in the sport, so much so that he was selected for East Germany’s 1968 Olympic team.Wolke would take home a gold medal in the Mexican Games thanks to a win over Cameroon’s Joseph Bessala in the final of the 147lb tournament.He’d turn his hand to training the next generation of fighters after hanging up his gloves.Wolke trained three-time IBF heavyweight title challenger Axel Schulz, who most notably shared the ring with Michael Morer, George Foreman and Wladimir Klitschko.Wolke helped guide his protege Maske to the prestigious IBF strap, which he defended ten times, in 1993.He most recently trained former unified title challenger Francesco Pianeta, who locked horns with Brit boxing icon Tyson Fury in 2018. More

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Ian ‘Chico’ Hamilton dead at 73: Chelsea’s youngest ever player and goalscorer dies as tributes pour in

      by

      CHELSEA’S youngest ever player and goalscorer Ian “Chico” Hamilton has died aged 73.The football world paid tribute to the midfielder, who was given his nickname after the famous American jazz drummer.Chelsea’s youngest ever player and goalscorer Ian “Chico” Hamilton has died aged 73Credit: AlamyHamilton played for Aston Villa tooCredit: AlamyHamilton started his career with Chelsea in 1966 and became the Blues’ youngest ever player and goalscorer at 16 years, 138 days.He scored against Tottenham on his debut and earned comparisons to the legendary Jimmy Greaves.But he only played four more league games for the Blues before moving to Southend.Chico’s longest spell was with Aston Villa, for whom he played 208 games, winning the League Cup in 1975.READ MORE ON CHELSEAHe also played for Sheffield United before moving to America.In retirement, Hamilton remained in the States and spent 17 years as a coach at Thomas Worthington High School in Ohio.Hamilton’s death was confirmed by the Blades on social media.A Blades statement read: “All at Sheffield United are saddened to have been informed former player Ian ‘Chico’ Hamilton has passed away, aged 73.Most read in Football”Chico began his career at Chelsea under Tommy Docherty and became their youngest League player and goalscorer when he netted on debut aged just 16 years and 138 days against Tottenham.”After just four appearances for the Stamford Bridge club, he moved to Southend United but Docherty, now manager at Aston Villa, came calling again and signed him in 1969.Best ten new Premier League kits for next season”At Villa, Chico won a Third Division title in 1972 and played in two League Cup finals in 1971 and 1975. In the ’71 final, Villa lost 2-0 to Spurs but in ’75 they tasted success after defeating Norwich 1-0.”After playing over 200 games for Villa in seven seasons, he joined the Blades in 1976, signed by then boss Jimmy Sirrel. “He played 73 times for United in all competitions, scoring 15 goals, but played during a period of turbulence both on and off the pitch at Bramall Lane.”He departed in 1978 and spent five seasons in the North American Soccer League playing for the likes of Minnesota Kicks and San Jose Earthquakes.”After his retirement, he did return to the Sheffield area for a time and worked for Rotherham United in a community role.”The thoughts of all at Bramall Lane go out to his family and friends at this sad time.” More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend Roy Keane heartbroken after death of beloved dog Jet as he posts emotional goodbye message

      by

      ROY KEANE posted an emotional goodbye message after his pet dog Jet passed away.The Manchester United legend is a huge dog lover and shares his walks on Instagram.Roy Keane posted an emotional goodbye message to his pet dog Jet who sadly passed awayCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16The Manchester United legend is a huge dog loverCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16Keane shared pictures of his dog onlineCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16Keane had feared for the health of his petCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16But Keane took to the social media app to reveal the tragic news of Jet’s death with a series of snaps. He posted: “Thanks Jet for being so beautiful and loyal to our family. We will miss you.” Keane opened up on his love for his pets on an episode of The Overlap but also revealed his fear for their health.He said: “You have a routine and you have to look after them. Walk them. I went out this morning before I came here. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”You have a routine with your dogs. I’ve always had dogs, going back when I was growing up in Ireland we always had dogs in the house. “It gives you good security. It’s good for a bit of exercise. Love them to bits. I’ve got two dogs. “But mine are getting a bit old now and a bit frail and that’s always the worry that something will happen to them.” Arsenal icon Ian Wright also revealed he is a cat lover.Most read in FootballWright said: “Cats are amazing. I love them. I’m so deep into them now.” And Keane said: “I’m not anti-cats. I just prefer dogs. I’m not anti-cats.”‘Don’t get all excited’ – Roy Keane and Ian Wright in heated F-word bust-up as co-star forced to play peacemaker More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Boxing

      Heartbreaking pictures show boxer Sherif Lawal making ‘last preparations’ hours before dying in first professional fight

      by

      THESE are the heartbreaking pictures showing boxer Sherif Lawal as he makes his “last preparations” just hours before he died in his first professional bout.Images posted on Instagram show the 29-year-old boxer working out with his trainer with the post captioned “last preparations done!”Sherif Lawal is seen working out in a series of pictures posted on InstagramCredit: InstagramThe middleweight fighter is shown making his ‘last preparations’ before his first professional fightCredit: InstagramLawal limbers up with his coachCredit: InstagramThe photos show the middleweight fighter looking focused as he gears up to take on Portuguese opponent Malam Varela at Harrow Leisure Centre in London yesterday.The first few pictures show Lawal in blue shorts and a matching waterproof jacket as he appears to be warming up.Later images in the series show him sparring with his coach while wearing multicoloured gloves and shorts along with a grey hoodie.Fans have been flocking to the sportsman’s social media page to leave tributes.Read More on BoxingOne said: “Rest in peace big man. Thinking of you and all your family.”A second wrote: “Rest in peace brother.”While a third added: “An amazing boxer. Never forgotten.”Lawal lost consciousness during the fight after he was struck on the temple.Most read in BoxingReferee Lee Every began the knockout count but immediately called time after realising the extent of the 28-year-old’s condition on the canvas.Lawal, of Islington, was treated in the ring by doctors before being rushed to nearby Northwick Park Hospital.Mike Tyson looks ferocious on pads as boxing legend gears up for Jake Paul showdown But he was tragically later pronounced dead despite the efforts of medics.A witness said: “It’s unbelievably sad. This was his pro debut – he has died while chasing his dream.”His fight was first on the card, but the event was cancelled and the remaining three fights scrapped after Sherif was taken to hospital. That tells you how serious it was.”He was hurt at the end of round three. He then came out for the fourth and final round with his guard up, and took a right to the temple.”He dropped to his haunches and the referee started a count to ten – but then stopped and waved it off because he could see Sherif was in a bad way.”Doctors arrived and worked on him in the ring for about 20 minutes, including CPR and the use of a defibrillator.”This was in front of a packed house, and everyone was in total shock.”Sherif was then taken away on a stretcher before news came through later that he had passed away.Rest in peace big man. Thinking of you and all your familyA fan’s tribute to Sherif Lawal left on the boxer’s Instagram page”This is very rare. All care is taken to ensure the safety of fighters but in a sport like boxing these things occasionally happen. However, that doesn’t make it any less devastating.”Costakis Evangelou, the promoter behind the Clash of the Titans event, told The Sun: “This was a tragic incident and my profound sympathies go out to Sherif’s family.“It’s a difficult time for everyone involved in the boxing fraternity and we’re trying to absorb what’s happened. No one wants to see something like this in any sport.“Sherif was a great boxer and man. It’s now in the hands of the Board and they’re going to assess the incident.”Lawal had been boxing since 2018. He wrapped up his amateur career and announced he was turning professional earlier this year.READ MORE SUN STORIESAt the time, coach CJ Hussein, who also trained Tyson Fury’s 2009 opponent John McDermott, said: “I think the pro game will suit Sherif down to a tee, he’s got all the talent to become a great middleweight.“He’s a real inspiration to all the younger boxers at the gym.”Fans took to Lawal’s social media page to honour the 29-year-oldCredit: InstagramThe photos show Lawal preparing for his first professional boutCredit: InstagramHe gears up with his trainer to take on Portuguese opponent Malam Varela later that dayCredit: Instagram More