Grimsby-born Matija Sarkic dead aged 26 after sudden illness

Grimsby-born Matija Sarkic - current Millwall goalkeeper - has died following a sudden illness at the age of 26.

Sarkic represented Montenegro internationally and also played for several British football teams over his career, including Aston Villa, Wolves, Birmingham City and Stoke City. It is reported that he fell ill at an apartment in Budva while away on international duty.

He needed medical attention at 6.30am, The Mirror reports.

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Just last week, Sarkic performed commendably against Belgium in a match where despite their 2-0 defeat, he was awarded the man of the match following an impressive tally of nine saves. His journey in football began with his time at Anderlecht's academy; this marked the beginning of his prosperous career, which led him to join Villa.

Reacting to this heartbreaking news, the Millwall Supporters' Club posted on its social media handle, "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."

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