Spurs under-23 coach Ugo Ehiogu dies

There is disbelief in the football world today on the news that the Tottenham Hotspur under-23 coach Ugo Ehiogo has passed away after a suffering a heart attack at the club’s training ground yesterday.

Ehiogo was an ostensibly fit 44-year-old who after a career in top flight football in including Aston Villa and England was successfully embarking on a coaching career.

McDermott said:

Words cannot express the shock and sadness that we all feel at the club. Ugo’s presence will be irreplaceable. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife, Gemma, and his family.”

Tottenham said in a statement:

The club sends its deep condolences to Ugo’s family. Gemma has specifically asked that the family are given privacy at this difficult time. We should also like to place on record our thanks to all the medical professionals including those at North Middlesex University Hospital, Royal Brompton Hospital and Harefield Hospital for their care and support.”

For those of us who love football watching this young man in his hey-day was a joy to beloved: Fast, graceful and a great reader of the game. That he was embarking on the next stage of his career, aiming to break the glass ceiling and become Premiership manager is also a great tragedy for us all.

Rest in peace you Black prince, safe in the knowledge you gave us pleasure and pride in equal measure.

Simon Woolley