The captain of Derry City Football Club, Ryan McBride, has been found dead in his bedroom.
Hours earlier, the 27-year-old centre back led his team to victory against Drogehda United.
The Derry Journal reports that crowds of supporters gathered outside his home at Bluebell Hill Gardens and his Club are in total shock at the news.
The cause of the death is not yet known.
My thoughts are with the family, friends & club mates of Derry City Captain Ryan McBride who has sadly passed away . RIP
— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) March 19, 2017
Among the clubs paying tribute was Cork City which tweeted: “Our deepest sympathies to all @derrycityfc on the sudden passing of Ryan McBride. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. RIP”
The League of Ireland Players Union has tweeted, saying they're shocked to hear of Ryan's passing and their thoughts are with his family.
The 27 year old Derry native played as a defender for the League of Ireland Premier Division club.
He had been with Derry City since making his debut in 2011 and had gone on to make over 100 appearances for his hometown club.