Former teammates of the late Michael Newberry have been among those donating to help his family cover the cost of his upcoming funeral.
Mr Newberry passed away on his 27th birthday on December 30, just days after playing a match for Cliftonville.
Originally from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Michael had family links to the north and had played for the Northern Ireland Under-19 and Under-21 international squads.
More: ‘We will remember Michael Newberry for the rest of our days’ - Cliftonville boss Jim Magilton
After spending his youth in Newcastle United’s academy, he spent time playing in Iceland before signing for Linfield in 2021 and later Cliftonville, last summer.
His former teammates have joined others in raising almost £8,000 to support his family in the wake of his death.
These include English championship footballer Daniel Barlaser, who played alongside Mr Newberry during their time at Newcastle’s academy.
The Middlesborough midfielder shared a link to the GoFundMe page on his Instagram profile alongside a photo from their time at their boyhood club.
Donations have also been made to the page by Linfield players Euan East and Chris Shields as well as the club’s manager, Michael Gault.
The fundraiser was set up on behalf of Mr Newberry’s family over the weekend.
“Michael was known for always having a smile on his face, making people laugh and being there for others,” it reads.
“Understandably, this has come as a huge shock to family and friends and not something anyone was prepared for, or ever imagined.
“Any donation, big or small, is massively appreciated and will be welcomed by the family.”
A funeral for Mr Newberry will take place on January 16.
