Warrington Town FC have announced the death of Under 21s player, Vini Desouza, who passed away last weekend.
The 19-year-old Brazillian, who grew up in Portugal before moving to Walkden, joined the club in 2023, making his way through the Under 18s and Under 21s ranks.
This season he scored seven goals in 13 appearances for the Under 21s who are top of the North West Development League.
Less than 24 hours after being informed of Desouza’s passing, his Under 21s team-mates played their away game at Macclesfield, winning 4-1.
A statement from the club said: “Scorer of the most spectacular goals, Vini was a well respected, much-loved member of the club, and his ability earned him a place training with the first time despite his young age.”
His team-mate Sam Gill described him as “an extremely talented footballer with so much ability.
“Vini is someone who will be missed dearly, both on the pitch and more importantly his character in the changing rooms and outside of football.
“We will all miss him and we send our condolences to his family at this difficult time.”
There will be a minute’s applause before Warrington Town’s first team game against Scarborough Athletic on Tuesday night.
A JustGiving Page has also been set up to support Vini’s family with funeral costs.
(Featured image under Alamy licence)
