The footballing community have led tributes to a popular professional footballer from Northampton, who died this week.
Richard Butcher, 29, who was born in the town, passed away on Sunday night at his Manchester home.
The recently married Macclesfield midfielder, whose family still live in the Far Cotton area, would have turned 30 next week.
Richard was a trainee at both Northampton Town and Rushden & Diamonds, before making his professional debut for Kettering.
He played at a number of clubs including Lincoln, Oldham, Peterborough and Notts County during his career. Fans from clubs across the country have paid their respects on Facebook.
His manager at Macclesfield, Gary Simpson, said: “I was closer to Richard than any other player I’ve worked with. I was the one who first spotted him playing in non-league.
“He was like a son to me and I’d kept in touch with him throughout his career and of course was delighted to get him to come to Moss Rose (the Macclesfield ground) in the summer.
“My heart goes out to Sarah and his parents and brother. I can’t begin to think what they are going through.
“You couldn’t ask for a better professional than Butch. He was a great person and a great role model for the younger lads and it’s an understatement to say that he leaves a massive void in our lives.” A former team-mate at Lincoln, Sergio Torres, dedicated his winning goal for Crawley Town in the FA Cup on Monday night to his friend. He said: “I just want to send my condolences to his family. I just couldn’t believe it when I heard.
“I played with him for six months at Lincoln last year and he was such a nice guy, and only 29.
“There are no words you can say to his family and his wife.” A statement from Northampton Town said: “Northampton Town Football Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former midfielder Richard Butcher at the age of just 29.
“Locally born Richard started his career as a youth trainee here at Northampton Town and although he failed to make a first team appearance for the club, he did represent Lincoln City, Oldham Athletic, Peterborough United, Notts County and most recently Macclesfield Town.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Richard’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
