Popular teenage footballer dies suddenly, aged 19
Tributes have been paid to a popular and 'extremely talented' teenage footballer who has died suddenly. Warrington Town FC have confirmed the sudden passing of 19 year-old Vini Desouza.
He was born in Brazil and grew up in Portugal before moving to Walkden in Salford 10 years ago. He joined the club in 2019 and was a 'prominent part' of their youth set-up.
"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 team despite his young age" the club, who play in the sixth tier National League North, said in a statement.
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"He played for the first team last season in the Cheshire Senior Cup against Cheadle Town, and trained regularly with the first team, appearing in numerous pre-season friendlies over the past couple of seasons" they added.
On Sunday, less than 24 hours after they found out about his shock death, his teammates in the club's Under-21 side bravely went ahead with their game away at Macclesfield and won 4-1, dedicating the victory to him.
Teammate Sam Gill said: 'Vini was a well-loved and much valued player in our team. He grew into his character as his time at Warrington went on, and all of the lads had so much respect for him.'He was an extremely talented footballer with so much ability, had a major impact coming in with us and consequently earning his space for training and playing matches with the first team.'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.'
The club has launched a fundraising campaign in order to raise money for funeral costs for his heartbroken family. A JustGiving page has been set up whilst a bucket collection will also take place at tonight's home match against Scarborough Athletic.
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