- Derby County star Josh Vickers receives support from teammates
Derby County goalkeeper Josh Vickers has revealed his wife died of cancer, just three months after they married.
The 27-year-old, who began his career at Arsenal, documented his wife Laura’s long battle on Instagram, including numerous rounds of chemotherapy.
In an emotional message today, he shared the heartbreaking news of her passing, alongside a photo from their wedding day.
“I have written and unwritten this so many times and I still can’t find the right words to say and I don’t know if I ever will.
“Tuesday evening, my wife lost her long battle with cancer….
In an emotional message today, he shared the heartbreaking news of her passing, alongside a photo from their wedding day.

The goalkeeper’s absence from last night’s match was blamed on ‘personal reasons’

The Derby County player, 27, shared a moving tribute to his wife Laura

Vickers’ teammates held up his jersey in support while he was absent from yesterday’s game.
“Laura is the strongest, bravest, most loving person I have ever met. Despite everything she was going through, she kept smiling, never letting anything stop her from having a good time and to create unforgettable memories.
“We cried, laughed and danced through difficult times.
“I will cherish every moment we spent together, from the first time we met to the moment you passed peacefully. I know you will look down on me and continue to inspire me every day.
“Thank you to everyone who supported me and both my families during this incredibly difficult time. Truly lucky to have amazing family and friends! I love you forever and ever.’

Vickers’ Rams teammates held his jersey after he opened yesterday’s game with a goal

Vickers’ Rams teammates shared their support, with Martyn Waghorn posting a team photo with the caption “we’re all with you mate”.
The goalkeeper’s absence from last night’s match has been blamed on “personal reasons”.
In a touching show of support, the team warmed up for the game wearing jerseys reading “Josh 31.”
They then retained his strip after James Collins scored 18 minutes into the game against Carlisle.
The club paid tribute to Vickers on X, sharing a photo of the team after their victory, simply captioned: “For Josh.”

Vickers shared updates with her followers throughout Laura’s tough battle with cancer

Josh and Laura Vickers at home with their pet French bulldogs in 2020
The goalkeeper signed for the Rams just 13 weeks ago, announcing the news via Instagram saying he was “thrilled” with the move.
He posted about his marriage to Laura on June 1, just three weeks before.
Vickers also shared updates with her followers throughout Laura’s tough battle with cancer.
In 2019, he paid tribute to her after completing eight grueling chemotherapy sessions.