Devastation as 'terrific footballer' in his 20s dies suddenly as club pays tribute to the 'fantastic young man'

The death of a 'terrific footballer' in his 20s has left his club devastated as they pay tribute to the 'fantastic young man'.

Ross Aikenhead - whose cause of death has not been disclosed - has been described as one of the 'nicest lads on and off the pitch' by his teammates at Winsford United FC.

The Cheshire team which plays in the North West Countries League said: 'It's with deep sadness that we have to announce that our player Ross Aikenhead has sadly passed away.

'Ross was a fantastic young man and a terrific footballer. He will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the club, our heartfelt empathy goes out to all of Ross's family and friends.

'RIP Ross.'

His former teammates have been left devastated by the loss of their fellow player and friend.

One said: 'Absolutely devastating news this. I've played with Ross at 4 different clubs (Sat/Sun) and he was a fantastic footballer, but more importantly an even better lad.

'Sending all my love to the Aikenhead family.'

Another wrote that Ross 'demanded the best out of his team mates week in week out'.

They added: 'No one can fault that he is one of the nicest lads you will ever meet on and off the pitch.'

A third teammate said: 'Rest easy mate, was an absolute pleasure to share the pitch with such a great player and also to share the changing room with such a great character. 

'Sending love to the Aikenhead family and all his friends, he will be missed by everyone.'

Another team Ross briefly played for Manchester based Wythenshawe Town FC also paid tribute, writing on Facebook: 'On behalf of everyone at Wythenshawe Town FC we send our deepest condolences to the family of Ross Aikenhead.

'Ross played with us in preseason and early part of the current season.'

The team will hold a minute long applause in tribute to Ross before their match with Wynthenshawe FC who also posted a tribute to him.

On Facebook the team wrote: 'It’s with deep sadness that we confirm former Ammie Ross Aikenhead has sadly passed away.

'Ross was a talented attacker with a keen eye for goal, and a fantastic lad off the pitch.

'He’ll be missed by everyone at the club. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ross’ family at this time.'