The Amateur League is mourning one of their own after former Abbey Villa man Daniel Ferguson passed away suddenly.
Known affectionately as Fergie, the 34-year-old also played for Bangor Amateurs and Donaghadee.
He had been living in Australia for the past few years, and was planning to return home to see his family this Christmas.
Tragically, however, he suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday, passing away in hospital.
He is survived by mother Maxine, father Aiden and sister Bronte.
His death was met with an outpouring of tributes from stunned and saddened friends and ex-team-mates.
1st Bangor assistant boss TJ Young managed him at Abbey Villa. On Facebook, he spoke of his devastation, writing: “I’m in absolute shock since I heard the news of our Fergie. What a guy.
"A true honest guy who would have done anything for anyone.”
Jordan Dalzell played with him at Adams Park. He wrote: “Heart’s broke for everyone. What a fella Fergie is! Gutted! Life’s not fair.
“A team-mate, and someone who was always in the middle of a party. Never seen him without a smile on his face.”
Abbey Villa boss Jonathan Busby managed him during his time at Bangor Amateurs. In his own Facebook tribute, he posted: “My prayers are with his family and friends.
"My memories of him are seeing him around the Villa club with his partner-in-crime Gavin Munn, and when he came to play for us at the Ams… Rest easy Fergie.”
