The NI Football League has taken a moment to remember Cliftonville and former Linfield defender Michael Newberry who sadly passed away aged 27.
A minute’s silence was held ahead of matches on Monday evening as a mark of respect.
It comes as the father of Newberry has expressed his devastation at the sudden death of his son.
The defender passed away on Monday on his 27th birthday.
Originally from Newcastle in England, Newberry joined his hometown club’s academy at the age of 11 and was awarded its ‘Wor Jackie trophy’ back in 2016, an accolade presented annually to Newcastle’s top young talent.
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He represented Northern Ireland’s Under-21 squad and signed for Icelandic side Vikingur Olafsvik in 2018.
Following a three-year spell at Linfield, he joined Cliftonville in July this year.
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Posting on Facebook, Michael Newberry’s father, also named Michael, wrote: “Devastated to learn that my beautiful son Michael Newberry has tragically passed away today on his 27th birthday.
“RIP, son, you were my pride and joy and we will miss you dearly.”
Cliftonville manager Jim Magilton said Newberry will be missed by everyone who had the “privilege” of knowing him.
“Today, on what would have been his 27th birthday, we remember Michael Newberry with heavy hearts,” he wrote on social media.
“I first came to know Michael when he burst onto the scene as a talented young player at Newcastle United, his boyhood club and greatest love.
“With his unmistakable red hair and boundless passion for the game, he quickly stood out not just for his skill, but also for his enthusiasm, determination and unwavering dedication.
“Although his dream of playing for Newcastle didn’t materialise, it never deterred him from forging his own path in football.
“I’ve followed Michael’s journey throughout his career, and when the opportunity arose to bring him to Cliftonville, I didn’t hesitate.
“He brought the same passion and determination to every training session and match. Winning mattered deeply to him, but so did the love for the game and the bonds he formed with teammates.
“Michael was a remarkable young man, a credit to his family, his teammates, and the entire football community.
“His loss is felt not only in Northern Ireland but across every club he represented. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Rest in peace, Michael. You’ll always be remembered.”
Crusaders and Carrick Rangers were among the clubs to hold a minute’s silence when they met tonight
Newcastle United FC said the club was saddened to learn of Newberry’s death.
“The thoughts of everybody at Newcastle United are with Michael’s friends and family at this difficult time,” said the Premier League side.
Tributes also flooded in from the NI football community upon hearing the news.
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In a statement, his club said: “Cliftonville FC are devastated to learn of the sudden death of Michael Newberry.
“Our condolences are extended to Michael’s family and friends, as well as the many team-mates he played with during his career, and fans who will be shaken and saddened by this heartbreaking news.”
Newcastle United FC also paid tribute saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player, Michael Newberry, at the age of 27.
“Our sincere condolences go to Michael’s family, friends and all at Cliftonville FC at this time.
“Rest in peace, Michael.”
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The NI Football League said it is “deeply saddened” to learn of Newberry’s passing.
“Everyone connected with the NI Football League pass on our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, friends and everyone connected with Cliftonville Football Club at this sad time,” a spokesperson said.
“As a mark of respect, Cliftonville’s match against Dungannon Swifts in the Sports Direct Premiership tonight (Monday) has been postponed.
“In addition, following a request from Linfield, and due to Michael’s time at Windsor Park and his close association with the Linfield players and staff, their match against Larne this evening has also been postponed.”
NIFL CEO Gerard Lawlor added: “May he rest in peace. Thinking and praying for his family, friends and teammates at Reds & Blues.
“No matter what we asked him to do for us, to promote the league or take part in promotional activities, he was always there. A great guy and will be missed across the football family.”
Linfield also offered the club’s condolences.
“Linfield FC is devastated to learn of the sudden passing of our former player Michael Newberry,” the club said.
“Linfield has agreed with NIFL that tonight’s Premiership game against Larne should be postponed.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michael’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
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The Irish FA said: “We are so sorry to learn of the the passing of Cliftonville Football Club player Michael Newberry, who represented our Northern Ireland national Under-21 and Under-19 teams.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates at this time and we send our condolences.”
The Amalgamation of Northern Ireland Supporters Clubs also paid their tributes.
“Like everyone else across football in Northern Ireland, we’re shocked by the sudden passing of Michael Newberry,” the organisation said.
“Michael was a former Northern Ireland youth international who played for Cliftonville and, before that, Linfield.
“Our thoughts are with all those who knew and loved Michael. At rest.”