TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Gwent footballer following his death from cancer.

Neil Bradford, who played for clubs including Chepstow Town and Caerleon Town, passed away at his home in America at the end of last month. He was 44.

USA women’s national team star Rose Lavelle wore the number eight shirt in Mr Bradford’s memory during a college match a few days after his death, while a minute’s silence was also held before Chepstow Town’s game last Saturday.

A talented sportsman, who also enjoyed spells at Bristol City and Premier League side Southampton, Mr Bradford moved to Cincinnati in 2001 and became a popular and well-respected coach with SAY Soccer, a national recreational football organisation in the USA.

Some 350 mourners joined his wife, Susan, seven-year-old daughter Madison, parents, Roger and Averil, and, sister Victoria, to attend a memorial service to pay their respects following his death in Mason, Ohio.

Mr Bradford was diagnosed with colon cancer in March 2010 and given the all clear in 2012. But it returned two years ago, and he lost his battle with the disease on August 30.

A fundraising page set up for him by close friend Joe Wuest in 2014 has now received more than $17,500 in donations.

“Neil was a natural born teacher and leader for the youth of today,” said Mr Wuest. “He had the amazing ability to take a room of kids from uninterested to active participants in drills and events.

“I grew up a tennis player and soccer did not exist in Northern Kentucky but he made me a soccer fanatic.

“Neil was in his element when he was teaching – he loved the game and he loved the kids.

“He is a legend that deserves proper recognition for all that he has done for the youth of today.

“He will be missed but never forgotten.”

Paul Light, manager of Chepstow’s reserve side, said: “Neil was a beautifully gifted footballer, two-footed, playing mostly on the left side of midfield. He was like Robert Pires, skilful, worked hard, and would score his fair share.

“Neil was also county runner and could have gone further. He also played rugby for the county and was a very talented sportsman.

“Neil will be sadly missed by so many. He was such a gentleman and a generous and fun-loving guy.”