MICAH RICHARDS paid tribute to his former team-mate Matija Sarkic after his tragic death aged just 26.
Millwall confirmed his passing in a statement in which they sent condolences to his family.
Richards was at Aston Villa at the same time as the goalkeeper and once featured on a substitute’s bench alongside him in a match against Reading.
The pundit reacted to the awful news, saying: “When I got the news I was absolutely devastated.
“Just 26 years of age, gone way too soon. I’ve been a little bit down all day thinking about it.
“I just want to send my condolences to his family.”
Sarkic was on international duty with Montenegro when he fell ill after an evening with friends.
He went for a walk with pals, had dinner in a restaurant and returned to his apartment early.
Sarkic is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am this morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late.
Millwall paid tribute to their star, who made 33 appearances for The Lions last season.
A statement read: “Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.
“Sarkic, The Lions’ No1 goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.
“A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.
“Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.
“The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”
