Former Cardiff City and Aston Villa midfielder Peter Whittingham has died at the age of 35 after a recent head injury.
Whittingham, who also had spells at Burnley and Blackburn Rovers throughout his long career in the English game, suffered his injuries in a recent accident at a pub in Barry.
The midfielder had been in hospital for a week before his tragic passing was announced this afternoon.
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A statement from Cardiff read: “It is with an immeasurable amount of sorrow that we must inform supporters that Peter Whittingham has passed away at the age of 35. We are heartbroken.
“The news of Peter’s sudden and untimely passing has shaken us to our very foundation. Our love goes out to his wife Amanda, their young son and family. They are at the forefront of our thoughts and, on their behalf, we ask for their privacy to be respected at this unfathomably cruel and difficult time.
“First and foremost, Peter was a family man – and somebody who could light up a room with his sense of humour, warmth and personality.
“Then, as a professional footballer – as a Bluebird – he excelled with talent, ease, grace and humility. Nobody did it better.
“The loss of Peter will be painfully felt by our city, supporters and indeed all who ever had the pleasure of knowing him. We love you Pete and your memory will eternally stay with us.”