EMOTIONS ran high at Hyde United as the club remembered one of its own who died in the most tragic of circumstances.
Israel Iyabor died in an incident on the M60 motorway on Sunday, July 20.
And the club paid its respects to its under-15s player with poignant tributes.
The message on a single bunch of flowers placed close to the entrance read: “Rest in peace my friend.
“Thoughts and love to all the family and friends. Love Lee and Hadley Warhurst and all at Hyde United Elite.”
Israel’s shocked team-mates, wearing their shirts. were joined by the first teams of Hyde United and Curzon Ashton for an impeccably observed minute’s silence before their pre-season friendly on Tuesday, July 22.
Each of the 305 people watching at the Project Solar Stadium stood still – and silent.
Dan Bollington, who coached Israel, said in a statement: “Israel was an influential part of the Hyde United family and it was my honour to have coached and got to know him.
“A true heartbeat and popular member of the team, a true inspiration who had his whole life ahead of him.
“Never did anybody see what was to come. Gone but never to be forgotten, RIP Israel.”
He added: “If anybody is ever struggling, please speak out. I will always be here and so will so many others to help you through any difficulties you may have.”
In a statement, Hyde United said: “The club is devastated to hear the tragic news that Israel Iyabor, a cherished member of our junior football family, has sadly passed away.
“Israel was more than just a talented young footballer — he was an influential, bubbly character whose energy, smile, and love for the game lit up every training session and matchday.
“His coaches describe him as an absolute joy to coach and a privilege to watch on the pitch.”
Hyde United’s senior players wore black armbands as a mark of respect to Israel for the match.
And first team manager Nick Spooner said: “It was a very emotional night for the football club.
“The way the young boys handled themselves was a credit to their managers. It’s a great loss.”
As a father, he added about what Israel’s family is going through: “It doesn’t bear thinking about.
“We’ve all got children and God forbid. My thoughts are with the family.”