A FOOTBALL club from Torfaen has paid tribute to one of its former players, who died suddenly on Saturday afternoon.

Warren Minshull, 32, played for Upper Cwmbran FC and joined the club – which formed three years ago – in January 2016 and was one of the team’s coaches.

Described as a defender who gave his “heart”, “soul” and “love” to the Cwmbran club, the team has dedicated their 3-2 over Blaenavon Blues AFC to Mr Minshull, originally from Birkenhead but lived in Fairwater.

“Upper Cwmbran FC are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our friend Warren Minshull,” said a club spokesman.

“Warren joined the club whilst it was in its infancy, and quickly established himself as an important member of the squad.

“Throughout ups and downs as a side, we could always rely on Warren to be amongst the first to pick up positives even when things looked bleak.”

“Warren was highly regarded by his team mates and the staff at Upper Cwmbran FC.

“He was regularly seen with an arm around a player, younger and older alike, providing his insights and passing on his experiences. We know that those moments will be cherished by his team mates.”

The club added that news of Mr Minshull’s death reached the team shortly after securing their first win of the season.

“On Saturday afternoon, at the young age of 32 and as the rest of the team was walking from the pitch following their long awaited first win of the season, news began to filter through that Warren, who had been in intensive care since Friday, had passed away,” said the spokesman.

As a further mark of the respect to the 32-year-old, Upper Cwmbran have confirmed that they will be retiring Mr Minshull’s squad number.

“We dedicate Saturday's win to Warren, and Upper Cwmbran FC will be formally retiring Warren's squad number as a mark of respect to everything he gave to us, his heart, his soul, and his love,” added the spokesman.

“Warren's number two shirt that he wore so proudly will be framed and presented to his family.”

The spokesman added that Mr Minshull is survived by his wife Lisa and their three children, and will be supporting the family in any way which they can help.

“Warren leaves behind his wife and three young children,” he said.

“As a club, we feel like we've lost a piece of our hearts at losing such a massive character and important part of our lives. Our love and support goes out to Warren's family at this tragic time.

“The club will be arranging some kind of event in the near future in memory of Warren and to raise funds to assist in the support of his young family, details are yet to be confirmed due to the impact this shocking news has had, but a further announcement will be made in due course.”