Ireland Keeper Darren Randolph Pays Tribute To Young Goalie Who Passed Away On Saturday

Republic Of Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph has added to the flood of tributes for 12-year-old Aaron O'Kelly who died suddenly over the weekend. 

Aaron was a talented goalie at Bray-based football club Ardmore Rovers, a team who Randolph represented as a youngster. Aaron fell ill at his home on Saturday and tragically passed away at Our Lady's Children's Hospital in Crumlin.

Randolph has taken to Facebook this afternoon to express his shock at the news and to pay tribute to Aaron. 

The Middlesbrough goalkeeper wrote 'Shocked & saddened today to hear of the death of young goalkeeper, Aaron O’Kelly. Only 12 yrs of age, at my old club, Ardmore Rovers FC. Condolences to his family and friends. RIP.'

Earlier, Aaron's dad Paul, who is a coach at Ardmore Rovers thanked wellwishers for their support and urged those attending the funeral to wear red as it was his son's favourite colour.

"We have received great comfort from the messages of support that have come from Aaron’s team mates, their families and the wider Ardmore Rovers family.

"Playing for his team and representing his club was a huge part of his short life and an incredible source of happiness for him.

"We would like the funeral to celebrate Aaron’s life and would ask people to wear splashes of Red which was Aaron’s favorite colour. Ardmore jerseys will be a welcome sight.

"While we are broken we realise that the gift we had having Aaron in our life for such a short period outweighs the pain we now feel.

"Thank you all for your support."

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