Milwall keeper Matija Sarkic dead aged just 26 as football world left in shock at former Livingston star's passing

Millwall's goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the tender age of 26 after suddenly falling ill.

The Grimsby-born shot-stopper, who represented Montenegro internationally and had stints with a host of British clubs including Aston Villa, Wolves, Birmingham City, Stoke City and Livingston, reportedly fell ill at an apartment in Budva while on international duty. His friends immediately sought medical help, but he sadly passed away around 6:30am local time.

Sarkic was in action against Belgium just last week, where he was hailed as the man of the match following a remarkable performance that included nine saves, despite Montenegro's 2-0 loss. The goalkeeper had earlier honed his skills at Anderlecht's academy before moving to Villa, where he spent five years and was loaned out to Wigan Athletic, Stratford Town, Havant and Waterlooville, and Livingston in the Scottish Premiership.

The Millwall Supporters' Club shared their grief on X: "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."

An outpouring of tributes followed, with one Birmingham fan expressing: "Heartbreaking news this morning that our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26. Rest in peace."