Macclesfield FC forward Ethan McLeod has passed away at the age of 21-year-old after being involved in a car accident, the club has announced.

The club have confirmed that McLeod lost his life in a car accident on the M1 on his way back from Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Bedford Town. A statement released by the club read: “With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism that Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod.

“Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 which tragically took his life. Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him.

“But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with. In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be – both on and off the pitch.

“Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days. News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.

“The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future. Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten.

“Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, together with an assurance that we will provide as much support as we can to those who need it. May you rest in peace Ethan – you will forever be a Silkman.”

Clubs have paid tribute to McLeod underneath Macclesfield’s heartbreaking post on X, formerly Twitter. Crystal Palace wrote: “Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends and everyone associated with Macclesfield at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Ethan.”

McLeod’s former team, Stourbridge FC, tweeted: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Glassboys forward Ethan McLeod last night. Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends, everyone at Macclesfield and all those who knew him. Rest in peace, Ethan.”

Rushall Olympic, who McLeod also played for previously, posted a touching tribute. “We are absolutely devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod in the past 24 hours. Ethan was a history-maker for us, scoring the winning penalty against Peterborough Sports to send us to the First Round of the FA Cup last season.

“His name will be etched into the history books of our club forever. We will be remembering Ethan at our home game against Leek Town on Saturday. Our thoughts are with all of Ethan’s friends and family and Macclesfield FC at this tragic time. RIP Ethan.”

Sutton United wrote: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Sutton United are with Ethan’s friends and family and all connected with Macclesfield at this incredibly tragic time. Rest in peace, Ethan.”