Latest: FAI expresses deepest sympathy to family of teenage footballer who died after collapse during match
The Football Association of Ireland expresses its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Shelbourne Under 16 player Izzy Dezu, who passed away suddenly during a DDSL match against St Kevin’s Boys last night, at the AUL Complex in Dublin.
The striker had been in fantastic form for Shelbourne Youths this season and was widely regarded as one of the most promising players at this age level in the country, according to the FAI.
CEO John Delaney paid tribute to Izzy and passed on his condolences to the Dezu family and to Shelbourne FC.
He said: "Everyone involved in Irish football is deeply saddened by the loss of Izzy Dezu at such a young age, particularly in these tragic circumstances.
“On behalf of the FAI Board and everyone in the Association, I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Izzy's family, friends, team mates and his club, Shelbourne FC.
"We will pay a special tribute to Izzy at the next Senior Men’s home international at the Aviva Stadium in 2018."
The sad news about Izzy Dezu makes @SkySportsNews #LOI pic.twitter.com/vnmel4X52u
— League of Ireland (@league_ireland) December 13, 2017
A 16-year-old boy has died after collapsing during a football match in Dublin.
First aid was given to Izzy Dezu on the northside pitch yesterday evening.
He was playing for Shelbourne Youths in a Dublin and District Schoolboys League U-16 league match against St Kevin's Boys when he suddenly collapsed in the second half.
It is understood first aid including a defibrillator was used to try and revive him at the AUL complex on the Clonshaugh Road.
We are heartbroken to have to confirm the news that our Academy U16 player, Izzy Dezu, collapsed and died during a match last night.
— Shelbourne FC (@shelsfc) December 13, 2017
The thoughts of everyone at Shelbourne FC are with his family and friends who have been devastated by his tragic loss.
May he rest in peace.
Until recently, Izzy played with Cherry Orchard FC. Manager Dave Collins said it's not the first death on the pitch.
"We had it before, another young boy died a few years ago, so it's a real tragedy," he said.
"His young brother was in the academy, he has older brothers who played for Cherry Orchard as well... so the club is really feeling it very, very hard at the moment.
"I'm just devastated that young men, healthy young men, who have such a good attitude are dying. It's just wrong, you know?"
In May 2015, 16-year-old Belvedere player Shetemi Aytigbo collapsed and died on the pitch after suffering an aneuryism.
