A non-league Worcestershire footballer has died suddenly in his mid 20s, sparking a wave of tributes.
Redditch United Football Club announced the death of midfielder Thomas Rankin, better known as Tom, on Sunday.
Tom's parents said he was 'their world', while Redditch manager Matt Clarke said there were 'no words for how special' he was.
It is not yet clear how the young player died, BirminghamLive reports.
Tributes have poured in for Redditch United's former captain, who had been with the club for three seasons.
In a statement the club said: "Redditch United are devastated to hear of passing of midfielder Thomas Rankin.
"Tom has been with the Reds for the past three seasons.
"His loss will be felt by all at the club. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. RIP Tom."
In a Facebook post, his parents Wendy and Bob said his death had left the whole family devastated.
His mum said: "Tom you are the best son, you have always made us so proud, you are our world. There are no words for how much we will miss you.
"You have achieved so much in your short life. We would give everything to have you back with us. Rest in Peace with all our love Mom and Dad."
Thomas was a graduate of Loughborough University who had been at the Worcestershire side for three years.
The team played in the Southern League Premier Division Central and yesterday (Saturday) lost 3 - 1 to AFC Rushden and Diamonds. It is not known if Thomas played in that game.
The club dates back to 1891 when it was called Redditch Town and its home ground is the Trico Stadium in Redditch. Its manager is former Kidderminster Harriers player, Matt Clarke.
Mr Clarke tweeted his devastation at Thomas's death today. He said: "Life is so precious people. We often take things for granted, I know I do.
"In reality certain things really aren’t that important in the grand scheme of things. A special person left us today and words cannot describe how special this lad was."
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Tributes poured into the club from fans on social media.
Stephen Pardoe wrote: "I'm devastated - he epitomised what it means to be a Red - thoughts with his friends and family."
While Chloe-Esther Matilda Ashmore said: "Heartbreaking .. you’ll be forever missed Tom. Fly high."
Tributes were also made on his mum's Facebook page. Jason Cowley posted: "I’m devastated to read this - what a kid your son was, the nicest kid I’ve met through playing football, miss you mate, sorry for your loss."
And Jacqui Bates wrote: "So shocked to hear this. Beautiful lad inside and out. Sending love and strength."
Aaron Roberts said: "Absolutely gutted to read this. Your son was without doubt one of the nicest best lads I’ve ever met in football, from a kid when I met him, to the man he was."
