QPR and Charlton Athletic lead tributes as Millwall star Matija Sarkic dies aged 26

QPR and Charlton Athletic have paid tribute to Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic after the Lions confirmed that the player had passed away at the age of 26.

Millwall shared the news on Saturday morning and said that the club was 'completely devastated' by the player’s death. The Montenegro international made 33 appearances for the club last season after becoming first choice between the sticks following a move from Wolves last summer.

In a message shared on social media platform X, the QPR club account wrote: "The thoughts of everyone at QPR are with Matija's family and friends, as well as all at Millwall FC, at this incredibly difficult time."

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.

Sarkic was in footballing action as recently as June 5, playing for Montenegro in a 2-0 friendly loss to Belgium. He featured for Millwall in both matches against QPR last season.

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."

Other London clubs including League One outfit Charlton Athletic also shared messages of condolences online. The Addicks wrote: "Such sad news. Our thoughts and condolences are with Matija’s family, friends and all at Millwall at this time."