Tributes have been paid to former Rochdale AFC defender, Wayne Evans, following his death aged 51. Known as 'Evo' to Dale fans, he played 297 times for the club between 1999 and 2005, scoring three goals.
The club announced on Sunday (July 2) night that Evans had passed away in America, with former teammates paying tribute to the Welshman. He is eighth on the list of all time appearance makers for Dale having been ever present in the team after joining in 1999.
His career started at Welshpool Town before he spent six years at Walsall FC before six years at the Spotland stadium. Evans was a key member of a successful Dale side which reached the Division Three playoffs for the first time in 2002, as well as the FA Cup fifth round the following year.
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His final appearance for Dale came in April 2005 after which he joined Kidderminster Harriers before returning to Welshpool Town. He moved into coaching after his retirement, spending four years as Academy Manager at Shrewsbury Town before coaching over in the USA and Canada.
A Rochdale AFC statement said: "The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Evo’s family and friends at this tough time."
A statement from Walsall FC said: "Walsall Football Club are very sad to learn that former player Wayne Evans has passed away. Wayne represented the Saddlers between 1993-1999 and will be missed by all at the Poundland Bescot Stadium. Our thoughts are with Wayne’s family and friends at this difficult time."
Former Walsall teammate, Chris Marsh, has since set-up a JustGiving page to raise funds in order to bring Evans back to the UK from the USA. Marsh paid tribute to his friend 'Wanners' on the page, saying: "Absolutely devastated to hear of the passing of Wanners at the age of 51. A dear friend and team mate of mine for many years.
"Truly heartbreaking news and he will be forever missed. Wanners lived in Canada and USA with his beloved wife Bev and these funds will go a long way in helping with the repatriation process.
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"Anything you can donate in order to make this process a little less painful. RIP my Friend Wanners x."
Former Dale teammate Grant Holt paid tribute on his Twitter page, saying: "So sad to here my former team mate has passed away. His guidance when I was younger was amazing, not only a great player but an outstanding human being also. RIP Evo."
Fellow Dale teammate, Simon Grand, said: "Heartbreaking news to hear. Was an amazing role model when I broke into the team and the nicest fella you could ever meet. RIP Evo."
Former Wigan Athletic and Dale player Graham Lancashire said: "To fans he was Evo, to teammates Wanners. Remembering my friend and former teammate today. We shared countless laughs, victories, and unforgettable moments on and off the field. You were a great player, but even more importantly, you were a kind and genuine person. RIP my friend"
Shrewsbury Town FC Tweeted: "Shrewsbury Town Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former academy manager Wayne Evans. Wayne was head of Salop's academy for four years until 2013. The thoughts of everyone at Shrewsbury Town are with Wayne's friends and family at this sad time."
A minute silence was held for Evo by Rochdale AFC players and staff ahead of a training session this morning.
