BREAKING West Ham footballer dies as membership legend pays heartbreaking tribute
The academy goalkeeper at West Ham United, Oscar Fairs, has died at the age of just 15 after a cancer battle.
West Ham announced the tragic news this afternoon (December 13) after former captain and now sporting director Mark Noble released an emotional statement.
The statement read: “On behalf of everyone at West Ham United, it is with deep and profound sadness that I confirm the tragic passing of our U15s Academy goalkeeper Oscar Fairs, following his brave battle with cancer.
“Oscar was adored by everyone at the Academy – not only was he a great goalkeeper, he was a true Hammer and a fantastic young person, who will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure to know him.
“I have wonderful memories of Oscar playing in my garden – Lenny and his teammates all loved him. He was a friendly, happy, well-mannered and polite young man, who had such a bright future ahead of him, and it is just so unimaginably devastating that he has been taken from his family and friends at this age.
“As a mark of respect, all scheduled Academy fixtures this weekend have been postponed, including this evening’s PL2 Under-21 match against Stoke City. In due course, the Club will also share information on our plans to pay tribute to Oscar, and we will ensure that his name is never forgotten at West Ham United.
“The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the Club are with Oscar’s parents, Natalie and Russell, and his brother Harry, and we kindly ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.
“Rest in peace, brave Oscar.”
The Premier League released its own statement, saying: “The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of Oscar’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends and everybody at West Ham United.”
Fulham Football Club added: “All of our thoughts are with Oscar’s family, friends and everyone at West Ham United at this extremely difficult time. Rest in peace, Oscar.”
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