The Northern Premier League side said news of Ethan’s passing had devastated the club
Ethan McLeod during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers
Ethan McLeod during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers (Image: 2023 Cameron Smith - WWFC/Getty Images)
View Image
A heartbreaking tribute has been paid to Macclesfield FC forward Ethan McLeod. The striker died in a car accident on the M1 motorway while travelling back from a game on Tuesday, December 16. The 21-year-old was returning from his side's National League North match at Bedford Town.
The accident occurred at around 10.40am near Northampton. McLeod's white Mercedes collided with a barrier. In a statement, Macclesfield said: "With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism that Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod.
"Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 which tragically took his life. Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him."
The statement continued: "But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with. In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be – both on and off the pitch.
"Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days."
The Northern Premier League side said news of McLeod’s passing has devastated the entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that is felt. The club added: "The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future."
In the statement, McLeod's club said that the player will live in their hearts and minds, and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised will never be forgotten.
The moving statement finished: "Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, together with an assurance that we will provide as much support as we can to those who need it. May you rest in peace Ethan – you will forever be a Silkman."
Tributes have flooded in for the footballer from the world of football and beyond. Former Liverpool player Max Woltman, posted to Instagram: "Absolutely heartbroken", alongside a red heart emoji. The 22-year-old was a teammate of McLeod, having joined the Silkmen after a successful trial period with the club earlier this year.
Woltman started his career at Liverpool FC and worked his way through the ranks at Melwood, eventually becoming a regular in the Liverpool's U23 side during the 2021/22 season. He made his senior debut for the Reds' in the same season in the UEFA Champions League against AC Milan at the San Siro.
Scarborough Athletic shared a tribute of their own, which said: "We are so sorry to hear this. Sending our condolences to Ethan's family and friends and everyone at Macclesfield."
Chesterfield FC sent their thoughts and prayers to the 21-year-old's loved ones, a tribute said: "Everyone at Chesterfield Football Club sends their thoughts to Ethan's family, friends and everyone at Macclesfield Football Club at this incredibly sad time."
Further tributes included: "So very sad to read this. My condolences to his family, friends and teammates" and Marine FC said: "Terribly sad news. Our thoughts go out to Ethan's family and the entire club."