Tributes paid to 'kind and compassionate' player
Multiple clubs have paid tribute to a "kind and compassionate" footballer who has died.
Devonte Aransibia started the season at Chesham United in Buckinghamshire and later made appearances for Bedford Town and Hertfordshire side Royston Town.
Manager of Royston Town Chris Watters posted on social media that the 26-year old was "always quiet but always smiling".
Players and staff at Norwich City will wear black armbands during tonight's fixture against Preston North End. In 2013 the midfielder joined the club's academy and progressed through the youth groups before departing in 2019.
Darren Huckerby, who coached him during his time at the Canaries, described it as "absolutely devastating news".
He added: "Devonte was an amazing person and quality player, loved by all his team mates and staff, tragic loss, my thoughts are with his family and friends"
More than £9,000 has been raised for Aransibia's family in an online fundraiser.
A tribute statement posted on the page said: "Dev was the embodiment of kindness and compassion, always ready with a warm smile.
"His infectious laughter and generous spirit brightened every room he entered, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
"Beyond his loving nature, Dev was a talented footballer whose passion and drive propelled him to great success on the pitch."
Aransibia spent about a month at Bedford Town this season on a dual registration with Chesham United.
The manager of Bedford Town, Lee Bircham, said: "He was only with us for a brief while but he was a really lovely lad. Always smiling, really got on with the boys and was a great player."
A spokespers for Royston Town said: "Devonte was a skilful and talented midfielder who first joined the Crows in February 2022, and quickly became a fan favourite.
"His performances at Garden Walk during his initial spell with the club were truly memorable, lighting up the pitch with his exceptional ability."
Chesham United said it was "deeply saddened" by the news of his death and extended condolences to his family.
Aransibia also had spells at Kent sides Tonbridge Angels FC which he joined in 2022 and Maidstone United where he made 23 appearances after joining in 2023.
Director of football at Maidstone, Bill Williams, said: "Like all players past and present, he was welcomed into the Maidstone United family and all those who met him and watched him play will mourn the loss of someone so young."
In a tribute Sophie Purves, chair at Tonbridge Angels, described him as a "strong, talented footballer and a sensitive young man."
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