Irish football is united in grief this morning after news emerged last night about the tragic sudden death of Derry City captain Ryan McBride.Â
The 27-year-old was found dead at his home on Sunday evening, just one day after leading his side to a 4-0 Premier Division victory over Drogheda united.
McBride has been a pivotal figure in The Candystripes’ perfect start to the 2017 league campaign which has seen them win all of their first four games.Â
The cause of his death is yet unknown.Â
President Michael D Higgins tweeted this morning that:
“Along with all those who support Irish football, I express my sadness and condolences to the family of @derrycityfc Captain Ryan McBride.”
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) March 20, 2017
Since the tragic news emerged, tributes have poured in from footballers, rival clubs, fans and media alike, with McBride’s leadership skills being a common theme:
Everyone at Bohemians wishes to extend our condolences to our friends at Derry City after the untimely passing of club captain Ryan McBride. pic.twitter.com/NRbfyn3daZ
— Bohemian FC ????⚫ (@bfcdublin) March 19, 2017
In utter shock at the sad news @derrycityfc tonight. Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ryan McBride and all on Foyleside
— Tony O’Donoghue (@Corktod) March 19, 2017
Thoughts and prayers of all the family and friends of @derrycityfc captain Ryan mcbride… RIP
— Robbie Fowler (@Robbie9Fowler) March 20, 2017
Thoughts tonight with the family of Ryan McBride and everyone involved with @derrycityfc pic.twitter.com/ecTst1872W
— Official Irish FA (@OfficialIrishFA) March 19, 2017
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
Thoughts of everyone at Leinster with @derrycityfc and the family and friends of their captain Ryan McBride who has sadly passed away. #RIP pic.twitter.com/hbTPDrjNMr
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) March 19, 2017
Our thoughts & prayers are with the family & friends of @derrycityfc‘s Ryan McBride. RIP.
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) March 20, 2017
Beyond comprehension to see Ryan McBride and RIP in the same sentence. Thinking of all who knew him.
— Darren Cleary (@RadioCleary) March 19, 2017
Staring at Twitter in total shock the last 20 mins upon hearing the desperately sad news of Ryan McBride’s passing. Hard to comprehend!
— Alan Cawley (@alancaw) March 19, 2017
Ryan McBride in full flight. Old school (and never a foul) https://t.co/Onr09dmLDV
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) March 19, 2017
A proud Brandywell man who crossed the street to play for and captain his club. A Devastating loss.
He is our eternal captain. pic.twitter.com/8SeqHoXHK8
— Caolán (@caolan_cfc) March 19, 2017
Ryan McBride RIP. Devastating news. A gent off the pitch and a giant on it. Heart goes out to family, friends & everyone at Derry City.
— Mark McCadden (@markmccadden) March 19, 2017