Macclesfield FC forward and former Wolves soccer player Ethan McLeod has tragically died at the age of 21 following a car accident in the UK.
McLeod was travelling home on Tuesday night after featuring for Macclesfield in their National League North fixture away at Bedford Town.
The club confirmed his death later that evening, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across English soccer.
Police said the crash occurred at around 10.40pm on a stretch of motorway (freeway) in Northamptonshire.
Northamptonshire Police confirmed that McLeod’s white Mercedes collided with a metal barrier. No other vehicles were involved.
“Despite the efforts of members of the public and officers from Northamptonshire Police, the driver – a man in his 20s from the West Midlands – was pronounced dead at the scene,” police said in a statement. Officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Macclesfield FC pay tribute
Macclesfield FC confirmed the identity of the player and described the impact of his death as devastating.
“News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire club, and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now,” the club said.
“The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future.”
McLeod joined Macclesfield in July after a successful trial and quickly established himself in the first-team picture.
He made seven appearances for the the club and scored three goals. He also scored on debut in an FA Cup match earlier in the season.
Ethan played for Wolves
Before moving into senior football, McLeod spent a decade at Wolverhampton Wanderers. McLeod joined the club’s academy at the age of seven.
He went on to feature for Wolves’ under-21 side in the EFL Trophy but did not make a first-team appearance.
Wolves issued a statement following the news, confirming they were “heartbroken” by the death of their former academy player.
The Premier League club also said they would provide support to McLeod’s family, including his younger brother Conor, who currently plays for Wolves’ under-21 side.
A minute’s silence will be held before Wolves’ upcoming home match against Brentford.
Macclesfield described McLeod as an “incredibly talented” and “well-respected” member of the squad, praising his work ethic, personality and connection with supporters.
“Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore,” the club added. “You will forever be a Silkman.”
