Matija Sarkic, the Millwall goalkeeper, has died aged 26 after reportedly falling ill days after playing for Montenegro.
Sarkic, born in Grimsby, is said to have felt unwell in an apartment in the city of Budva after carrying out an international mission.
His friends reportedly called for an ambulance, but he was pronounced dead at around 6.30am local time on Saturday.
Millwall said in a statement: “Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.
“Sarkic, the Lions’ number one goalkeeper, has made 33 appearances for the club since arriving from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.
“Montenegro international Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.
“Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.
“The club will not be making any further comments at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family be respected.”
Millwall Supporters’ Club posted on Devastating news for his friends and family and everyone associated with Millwall. “Once a lion, always a lion.”
Sarkic was at Aston Villa before joining Wolves in 2020, and spent most of his career on loan before signing for Millwall last summer.
On Thursday he started Montenegro’s friendly against Belgium, making a number of saves in the 2-0 loss.