Derby County goalkeeper Josh Vickers has posted a heartbreaking tribute to his wife Laura after she passed away from cancer, just three months after they got married.
Ahead of Saturday's League One clash between Derby and Carlisle, it was confirmed that Vickers would miss the game at Brunton Park for personal reasons.
The 27-year-old's teammates warmed up with "Josh 31" on the front of their shirts before walking onto the pitch holding a shirt bearing his name and number.
James Collins, who opened the scoring for Derby in their 2-0 win, would also hold up a "Vickers 31" jersey after the former Arsenal, Swansea City and Lincoln shot-stopper was left out.
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Vickers would later confirm that Laura passed away on Tuesday evening following a long battle with cancer.
Accompanied by a picture of the couple on their wedding day in June, Vickers wrote on Sunday morning: "I have written and unwritten this so many times and still can’t find the right words to say and don’t know if I ever will.
"On Tuesday evening my wife lost her long battle against cancer.
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"Laura is the strongest, bravest and most loving person I have ever met. Even though everything she was going through, she continued to smile, never letting anything get in the way of having a good time and making a lifetime of memories. We have cried, laughed and danced our way through some tough times.
"I will cherish every moment we spent together from the first time we meet to the moment you peacefully passed. I know that you will be looking down on me and continuing to inspire me every day.
"Thank you to everyone that has supported myself and both families through this incredibly difficult time.
"Truly fortunate to have the most amazing family and friends! I Love You Always & Forever [heart emoji]."
A number of Football League clubs would sent their condolences to Vickers, including former side Rotherham United, who wrote: "All of our love and thoughts are with Josh Vickers and everyone connected with him and Laura at this truly heart-breaking time."
Our thoughts are with Josh Vickers and his family following the passing of Laura.
Topics: Derby, Arsenal, League One, Premier League
Jack Kenmare