Charlton Athletic have paid tribute to a schoolboy footballer after his tragic death.
Academy player Ethan Ade-Oduwale died aged 10 and his team described him as a ‘shining example’ during his stint at the Championship club.
In a statement on X, Charlton said: ‘We are devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ethan Ade-Oduwale, a cherished member of our academy’s U10s team.
‘Rest in peace, Ethan.’
The club also wrote on their website: ‘Ethan’s smile, energy and enthusiasm for football will always be remembered by his teammates and the staff within the academy.
‘From the moment he stepped onto a football pitch at Sparrows Lane, his desire to succeed spread across every session and his love of football will forever be remembered.
‘A shining example of what football should look like for any young player with his love of the ball, teammates and respect of all those who came across, Ethan will be sorely missed by all.’
Charlton’s academy are due to take on Co. Londonderry in a Boys’ Junior section match on Tuesday night and a one minute’s silence is planned before the game.
His manager at Charlton, Tom Pell, added that the academy had been left ‘devastated’ by the sudden death of the schoolboy star.
He said: ‘Everyone within Charlton Athletic’s academy is absolutely devastated to find out the news of Ethan’s tragic passing.
‘On behalf of everyone within the academy, we are sending our thoughts, prayers and sincere condolences to Ethan’s parents Adeola and Esther and the rest of Ethan’s family and friends.
‘In due course, we will share information on our plans to pay tribute to Ethan across the academy to ensure that he is always remembered.
‘We kindly ask for the privacy of his family, his teammates and the staff be respected during this truly difficult time.
‘His beaming smile will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Ethan.’
Club Chairman Gavin Carter said: ‘On behalf of everyone at Charlton Athletic, we are devastated by the heartbreaking news of Ethan’s passing.
‘Our thoughts, heartfelt condolences, and full support are with Ethan’s parents and family.’
Other clubs from across the footballing world have been quick to pay tribute to the talented star following the heartbreaking news.
Former Premier League side Ipswich Town said: ‘The thoughts of everyone at Ipswich Town are with Ethan’s family and friends.’
Meanwhile, League One teams Northampton Town and Port Vale sent touching messages in honour of the schoolboy.
