Tributes have poured in following the death of Macclesfield FC forward Ethan McLeod.

Football clubs up and down the country have paid their respects following the news that 21-year-old Ethan passed away after a crash on the M1 on his way home from the Silkmen's 2-1 win over Bedford Town on Tuesday, December 16.

Among those to have paid their respects is Ethan's former club, Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Ethan joined the Premier League outfit's academy at age seven and went on to sign professional terms at the club, before leaving in September 2024.

Wolves' academy director Jon Hunter-Barrett said: "We're absolutely devastated as a club and academy with the news of Ethan's passing. He was in our academy programme for a long time, and his brother Conor is on our books now, so we're incredibly sad for Conor and his family.

"We're respecting his family's privacy at this moment in time, but we'll support them in any way possible moving forward. We'll be there for them and Conor, because they're a massive part of our club. 

"Nobody will have a bad word to say about Ethan. He had a warm heart and was incredibly caring and considerate. He was a talented young man, who got on well socially with everyone in the academy, staff and players, because he was such a loving character.

"Ethan was a talented footballer. He had injuries towards the end of his time here, but as a young player he developed early and progressed to representing England at youth level and played up the age groups at Wolves.

"Our thoughts go out to Conor, Ethan's family and friends, and everyone at Macclesfield FC, because they'll be devastated with the tragic news too."

Wolves will observe a minute's silence ahead of Saturday's first team fixture against Brentford.

Ethan McLeod joined Macclesfield FC over the summer, having previously played for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Stourbridge FC (Credit: Stourbridge FC)

Ethan joined the Silkmen over the summer following a stint with Stourbridge FC.

His former team shared: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Glassboys forward Ethan McLeod last night.

"Our thoughts are with Ethan's family, friends, everyone at Macclesfield FC and all those who knew him.

"Rest in peace, Ethan."

Ethan also featured in the first season Baller League UK.

"We're devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod," read a social media post shared by six-a-side indoor football competition

"Ethan represented VZN FC in Season 1 and will forever be part of the Baller League family.

"We send our love and condolences to his family, friends and teammates at this heartbreaking time.

"Rest in peace, Ethan."

Ethan represented VZN FC in season one of the Baller League UK (Credit: Baller League UK)

A number of the game's greatest ever players have also paid their respects, including England and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand.

He said: "Sending love to Ethan's family and friends."

Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler added: "Deepest sympathy to all his family and friends and everyone associated with Macclesfield FC."