Leah Williamson
Leah Williamson in action for the Lionesses
Arsenal and Lioness star Leah Williamson has offered her thoughts to the family of a young girl killed by a car crashing onto a rugby pitch.
10-year-old Poppy Atkinson died after a BMW i4 crashed through a perimeter fence between pitches at Kendal Rugby Club in Cumbria. It drove down a 3ft drop from a car park and hit Poppy and another eight-year-old girl.
Medics immediately attended the two injured girls but they were unable to save Poppy. And Arsenal icon Williamson has now sent an emotional tribute.
Writing on her Instagram story, Williamson wrote: "Such tragic tragic news! My thoughts are with the family, friends and teammates. I can't begin to imagine your loss. RIP Poppy."
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A statement from Poppy;s heartbroken family this week read: “Poppy was the focal point of our lives, everything for us revolved around Poppy’s love for football. Poppy touched so many lives, it was easy to see why, her energy, character, spirit and passion for football was infectious and touched huge numbers of people.
“Poppy was 100% determined to be a professional footballer. Many who know her, and who know her determination to improve and win, had no doubt she would achieve her goal to one day to play for Manchester United. Poppy idolised Ella Toone, Georgia Stanway, Mainoo and Messi to name a few.
"Poppy was a small, petite and beautiful 10-year-old, yet she played up an age group and proudly represented the Kendal United and county U-12 teams. Poppy earned her place through her determination and her technical mastery on the pitch, her skill was envied by most that she played with and against.
Poppy and her brother Edward
Poppy and her brother Edward ( Image: Cumbria Police / Family Handout)
Leah Williamson
Leah Williamson has penned a touching tribute ( Image: Getty Images)
“Poppy was sister to 7-year-old Edward. Edward worshipped the ground Poppy walked on, he only ever wanted to be like her. Poppy would coach and support Edward with his football, it was so beautiful to see. The hole in our lives and so many around us that Poppy leaves is enormous, we will never be whole again.
"This world has lost a spirit like no other, she was a force of nature. She was so special, she was too good for this world.”
A host of Manchester United stars have offered their thoughts including Kobbie Mainoo and Ella Toone. A statement from United read: "On behalf of Ella, Kobbie and everyone at Manchester United, we send our heartfelt condolences to Poppy’s family and friends for their devastating loss. Rest in peace Poppy."
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