Daniel Wilkinson death: Walsall FC to hold collection for fans in memory of tragic young footballer
Walsall Football Club fans are to donate to the family of a former Rushall Olympic footballer who died this week.
Daniel Wilkinson, 26, played for the club for two seasons before he left in the summer.
He suffered a suspected heart attack while playing for new side Shaw Lane Aquaforce in Barnsley on Monday.
Rushall Olympic's vice-chairman Nick Allen said the club was 'beyond devastated' to hear of Mr Wilkinson's death on Facebook. He added: "There are no words really to convey how senseless this all is. Dan spent the last two seasons with us at Rushall Olympic.
"You would not meet a nicer, more genuine guy than Dan. He travelled from University to play for the Pics and always was with us, on time, committed, no fuss...absolutely 100 per cent genuine.
"The world can't keep taking the good ones...fit, young, healthy and in his prime. Our thoughts are with Dan's loved ones, all at Shaw Lane AFC and everyone who came into contact with him, because all that did will feel the loss of a top, top lad today. Absolutely shocking news, we're all numb with shock and pain."
There will be bucket collections for Mr Wilkinson's family at the annual Walsall Football Supporters' Trust fans versus legends fundraiser.
This is at Rushall Olympic's Dales Lane ground from 2pm on Sunday.
Former Hull City player Mr Wilkinson also played for Harrogate Town and North Ferriby United.
He studied accounting and financial management at Loughborough University.
He was playing in a local cup match at Brighouse Town when he collapsed in the 60th minute.
He was treated by paramedics and taken to Calderdale Royal Hospital, in Halifax, where he died.
The fundraising match will feature 22 Walsall FC supporters, who will play against a Walsall FC Legends XI.
