Macclesfield Town have paid tribute to the ‘incredibly talented and well-respected’ Ethan McLeod after confirming the 21-year-old died following a automotive crash on Tuesday night.
The previous Wolves academy prospect was returning home from his side’s 2-1 win over Bedford Town when his automotive hit a metal barrier on the M1 near junction 15 for Northampton.
Members of the general public and ambulance crews attempted to supply medical assistance but he died on the scene.
Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage of the incident which took place around 10.40pm.
Macclesfield, who play within the National League North, meanwhile are coming to terms with the lack of McLeod who joined them in July earlier this 12 months.
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‘Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him,’ the club said in an announcement on X.
‘But greater than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he got here into contact with.
‘In giving his all in all the things he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the perfect we could be – each on and off the pitch.
‘Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for all times put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days.’
The non-league side added that McLeod’s tragic passing has left the club in total shock.
‘News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.
‘The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is needless to say, and that’s Ethan’s vibrant legacy won’t ever fade, regardless of how much time passes in the long run.
‘Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and regardless of what the long run holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all won’t ever be forgotten.
‘Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, along with an assurance that we’ll provide as much support as we are able to to those that need it.
‘May you rest in peace Ethan – you’ll endlessly be a Silkman.’
McLeod spent 10 years as an academy player at Wolverhampton Wanderers and enjoyed stints at Alvechurch FC, Rushall Olympic and Stourbridge.
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