Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic dead at 26 in shock tragedy

Matija Sarkic, the goalkeeper for Millwall, has died unexpectedly at the age of just 26 after a sudden illness.

Sarkic, whose birthplace was Grimsby, 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.

Despite immediate medical attention, he sadly died around 6:30am local time.

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.

During a span of five years, he was loaned out to Wigan Athletic, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville, and Livingston, reports the Mirror.

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."

The fallen goalkeeper was met with a wealth of touching tributes, many expressing profound grief. A fan from Birmingham was quoted saying, "Heartbreaking news this morning that our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26. Rest in peace."