Portadown FC led tributes to one of their former players following his death as a result of an accident on Christmas Eve.
Callum McVeigh, who was from Downpatrick, was just 23.
Posting on social media, the Shamrock Park club said: “Everyone at Portadown Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of former player, Callum McVeigh.
“Callum joined the club from Linfield in January 2020, making a total of 3 first team appearances before departing for Ards in July 2022.
“We pass on our thoughts, prayers and sympathies to the McVeigh family circle at this very sad time.”
His current team, Killyleagh Youth Club, said he would “forever remain in our thoughts”.
The club said: “Although his time with us was far too short, he made a meaningful and lasting impression. He settled in immediately, showed great commitment, and earned the respect and friendship of teammates, management and committee alike.
“Callum’s final appearance for the club came on December 13, when he represented us in the Clarence Cup fixture against Clonduff — a moment we will now remember with great pride and sadness.
“Callum will always be remembered as part of our club and will forever remain in our thoughts.”
Killeagh Summer Leagued, posting on Christmas Day, said: “On this the happiest of days of the year, Christmas day, we are devastated to learn of the death of Callum McVeigh.
“Like so many from the Killyleagh area, Callum’s footballing experience began in the Killyleagh Summer League for primary school children. Even at such a tender age there were clear signs that he was destined for a bright footballing future.
“We watched with pride as he progressed through the Co Down Super Cup team at under 14 level to play for Glentoran and Linfield, and to win the Steel and Sons Cup on Christmas morning in 2019 in a Linfield Swifts team that contained two current Northern Ireland internationals.
“He went on to play for Ards, Portadown and Knockbreda before signing for Killyleagh YC in November. Even better days seemed ahead. This photo shows him taking part in a recent YC training match at The Showgrounds, back to where it all began for him.
“Our hearts are breaking for his father Marcus, mother Lisa and brother Ethan, and the extended McVeigh family.
Please keep them in your prayers and thoughts at this tragic time.
“He was a lovely, lovely fellow — taken from us too soon.”
The Co Down SuperCupNI team also paid tribute.
It said: “It was with extremely deep sadness that we heard of the tragic and untimely death of Callum McVeigh yesterday.
“Callum played for the county for the Under 14s back in 2018.
“A player with great talent who will be missed by so many far beyond football circles.
“Our love, thoughts and prayers today are with his family, friends and teammates, past and present, at this very sad and difficult time.”
