Rising English soccer prospect, 21, dies in car crash after match

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Ethan McLeod, a soccer player who was competing for Macclesfield FC in England’s sixth tier, died after sustaining injuries in a car crash, his club said Wednesday. He was 21.

McLeod was on his way back from a match in the National League North against Bedford Town when he was involved in a crash on the M1.

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Ethan McLeod, then-of Wolverhampton Wanderers, looks on during the Premier League International Cup between Wolverhampton Wanderers and OGC Nice at Aggborough Stadium on Nov. 29, 2023 in Kidderminster, England. (Cameron Smith/WWFC)

"Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him," Macclesfield said in a statement. "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 soccer forward played eight matches for Wolverhampton in Premier League 2 during the 2023-24 season. He played 84 minutes for the club.

Ethan McLeod, then-of Wolverhampton Wanderers, warms up prior to the Premier League International Cup between Wolverhampton Wanderers and OGC Nice at Aggborough Stadium on Nov. 29, 2023 in Kidderminster, England. (Cameron Smith/WWFC)

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