Tributes have been paid to the previous Tottenham and Portsmouth defender Anton Walkes, who has died on the age of 25.
Major League Soccer workforce Charlotte FC, who Walkes final represented within the 2022 season, confirmed his demise on Thursday following an accident in South Florida.
London-born Walkes progressed by Spurs academy and made his debut and solitary look for the membership in a Carabao Cup tie with Gillingham in 2016 earlier than he later spent two years with Portsmouth.
“Everyone at Tepper Sports & Entertainment is devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes,” Charlotte proprietor David Tepper mentioned. “He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met.
“Anton made those around him better people in all areas of life and represented Charlotte FC to the highest standard both on and off the pitch. He will be greatly missed by many and our thoughts and prayers are with Anton’s family during this heart-breaking time.
“The club offers its full support to all those impacted during this period of mourning.”
Charlotte FC signed Walkes forward of the 2022 season and he performed 24 occasions to assist them end ninth within the Eastern Conference.
Sporting director Zoran Krneta added: “We are heartbroken from the loss of Anton Walkes, a truly incredible father, loving person, and outstanding human being.
“Anton embodied what it means to be a part of Charlotte Football Club and our entire community is grieving over this tragedy. The impact he made in the locker room and throughout Charlotte will never be forgotten. We are thinking of his lovely family during this time and will support them fully in every way imaginable.”
Anton Walkes made one look for Spurs
(PA)
An MLS assertion learn: “There are no words to describe the sorrow of everyone in Major League Soccer today after learning of the tragic passing of Anton Walkes of Charlotte FC. Anton was a talented and dedicated player who was loved by his teammates and fans.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his partner, family, friends and the entire Charlotte FC family. MLS is coordinating with Charlotte FC to provide players and family members with the resources and support they may need during this tragic time.”
MLS reporter Chris Smith tweeted: “Had the pleasure of speaking with Anton Walkes on a number of occasions. Always kind, humble and hilariously funny. Absolutely rocked by this tragic news. My thoughts to his friends, family and teammates.”
Walkes’ former membership Portsmouth tweeted: “Everyone at Portsmouth Football Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Anton Walkes. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time.”
Tottenham added in a press release: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player, Anton Walkes. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
Spurs later confirmed they’ll put on black armbands throughout Thursday’s Premier League match at Manchester City and their academy groups will do the identical of their respective fixtures this weekend.
Meanwhile, ex-Tottenham defender Kyle Walker-Peters mentioned: “Lost for words. Rest in peace Anton, you’ll be missed champ!”
