'His unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten' - Ex-Wolves Academy player Ethan McLeod killed in motorway crash
Former Wolves Academy player Ethan McLeod has died aged 21 following a collision on the M1 motorway.
Tributes are pouring in for the Macclesfield forward, who was travelling back from Bedford Town following the Silkmen's 2-1 win on Tuesday(16) night when the crash occurred at about 10.40pm on the M1 near junction 15 at Northampton.
The footballer's Mercedes is reported to have struck a nearside metal barrier and despite efforts of the emergency services he died at the scene.
In addition to coming through the Wolves training programme Ethan had links with a number of Black Country sides as a youngster including Walsall Wood where he was coached by Ian Long.
He signed his first professional contract with Wolves in 2023.
Mr Long, now manager of Rushall Olympic, said: “I had him briefly at Walsall Wood before he went off for a spells at Stourbridge and Rushall. It’s horrific and just puts everything into context. We are disappointed with results but when something happens like this, it just puts everything into context.
“It is a terrible tragedy for a young lad like this to lose his life and his whole future ahead of him it’s terrible. My thoughts with his family, friends and everyone who knew and loved Ethan.”
Macclesfield Football Club posted on X: " 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. 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. News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.
"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. Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten.
"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."
