Former Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff defender Chris Barker has died at the age of 39.
Barker began his professional career in 1999 with Barnsley, playing for 11 different sides before turning to coaching after retiring in 2017.
Barker was lead professional development phase coach at Forest Green.
His first club Barnsley tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of our former player, Chris Barker, aged 39.
“Everyone connected with Barnsley Football Club would like to send their best wishes to Chris’ family and friends at this sad time.”
World in Motion, the agency that represented Barker during his playing career, wrote: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the untimely and tragic passing at the age of 39 of Chris Barker.
"Chris was a client throughout his outstanding playing career of over 500 League games for clubs including Barnsley, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers and Plymouth Argyle.
"Moreover, Chris was a wonderful person, an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to work for."
Former teammate Adam Webster also paid tribute, writing: “RIP Chris Barker. A former teammate of mine and someone who helped me grow up on and off the pitch. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family. RIP barks."
