Eastbourne Borough FC 'devastated to learn' news of former player's death at age of 25
Former Eastbourne Borough FC player Quevin Castro has died, after he collapsed during a football match in Portugal.
The club issued a statement on social media, after news of the 25-year-old’s death was reported on Saturday (August 22).
“#EBFC are devastated to learn of the passing of former player Quevin Castro,” the club said.
“Our thoughts are with Quevin's family during this extremely difficult time.
“Rest in Peace, Quevin.”
Eastbourne Borough manager Steve King has also paid tribute to the player, saying: "I am absolutely gutted and all my thoughts and sympathies go to Quevin's family and loved ones.
"I brought him to Borough at the end of last season to bolster us. He knew he had health issues but this is devastating news. It reminds us what things are more important in life than football. A lovely young man, and all of us at Borough send our love and sympathy."
Castro joined Eastbourne Borough from Cambridge City in March this year and made six appearances for the club, scoring three goals.
The Sporting CP Youth player subsequently returned to Portugal and joined Real Sport Clube in the summer.
The Portuguese midfielder was playing for third-tier Real Sport Clube in a pre-season friendly, against top-flight Estrela da Amadora, in Malveira, near Lisbon, when he collapsed.
The Lisbon Football Association confirmed his death and offered its condolences to his family, friends and Real SC.
Castro had previously played for West Bromwich Albion, making his senior debut against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, and had loan spells with Burton Albion, Notts County and Gateshead.
He later played for York City, King's Lynn Town, Chippenham Town and Cambridge City before joining Eastbourne Borough earlier this year.
He died before he could play a competitive match for his new team in Portugal.
His death has prompted tributes from a number of his former clubs, with West Bromwich Albion also announcing plans to honour Castro during their match against Burnley, on Sunday.
The club posted on social media: “We are devastated to learn of the untimely passing of our former player Quevin Castro, aged just 25.
“The club will pay tribute to Quevin on Sunday, with a period of applause in the 25th minute of the fixture against Burnley.”