Fulham, West Ham and Brentford pay emotional tributes as Millwall star Matija Sarkic dies aged 26

Fulham, West Ham and Brentford have led messages of condolences from Premier League clubs after Championship side Millwall confirmed the passing of goalkeeper Matija Sarkic at the age of 26.

The Lions shared a short statement confirming the tragic news on Saturday morning. The Montenegro international had last played football for his country on Wednesday, June 5 in a 2-0 friendly defeat to Belgium.

A Millwall statement read: "Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.

"A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions. Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija's family and friends at this immensely sad time.

"The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija's family is respected."

Sarkic joined Millwall from Wolves last summer and became first choice between the sticks at the London club. The Lions star made 33 appearances for the club in his debut season.

Sarkic came through the youth academy at Anderlecht and Aston Villa before moving to Wolves in 2020. The goalkeeper only made three appearances at Wolves, two in the Carabao Cup and one in the FA Cup.

Taking to social media, Fulham wrote: "Such sad news. Everyone at Fulham sends their condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this awful time."

Meanwhile, West Ham said: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of Matija Šarkić. Our condolences to everybody at Millwall as well as Matija’s family and friends."

Sarkic has a twin brother, Oliver, who is also a footballer. The forward plays for FK Decic in Montenegro but was formerly at Benfica, Leeds United and Burton Albion.

West London side Brentford also sent a message to their rivals in the capital. The Bees wrote: "Sending our deepest condolences to Matija's family and friends, and everyone at Millwall."