Northern Ireland

Tributes paid to 'fantastic' young footballer Eamon O'Connor following sudden death

West Belfast footballer Eamon O'Connor died suddenly on Monday
West Belfast footballer Eamon O'Connor died suddenly on Monday West Belfast footballer Eamon O'Connor died suddenly on Monday

Tributes have been paid to a "talented footballer with a fantastic attitude" from west Belfast following his sudden death.

Eamon O'Connor, who had recently joined Belfast Celtic's U-19 squad, died suddenly on Monday.

It is understood the 18-year-old was from the Moyard area.

He began playing for Newhill Football Club at the age of 11.

Posting on Facebook, the club said it was "deeply saddened" to hear of Eamon's sudden death.

"He was an enthusiastic, high energy and amazing person who could be trusted in the best and worst of situations.

"His footballing ability was impeccable. His big smile and huge personality was spread through every person lucky enough to meet Eamon".

Belfast Celtic also paid tribute to Eamon, adding that they were "devastated" by his death.

"Eamon had just joined our newly formed U19s recently but had already made a big impact on many at the club. Eamon played his first game for the club two weeks ago where he turned in a man of the match performance in his teams first ever game.

"A talented footballer with a fantastic attitude, he was a massively popular figure within the U19 set up and will be a great loss to everyone at the club".

Requiem Mass for Eamon will take place at Corpus Christi Church at 9.30am on Saturday, with burial in City Cemetery.