Redditch United midfielder Tom Rankin has sadly passed away suddenly and unexpectedly aged 26.
The tragic news was announced by the non-league club on Sunday afternoon, though a cause of death is yet to be confirmed. The announcement came just 24 hours after Rankin, a Loughborough University graduate, played for Redditch in their Southern League Premier Division Central home fixture against Rushden & Diamonds.
"Redditch United are devastated to hear of passing of midfielder Thomas Rankin," the club tweeted. "Tom has been with the Reds for the past three seasons and his loss will be felt by all at the Club. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. RIP Tom."