Shaw Lane's Daniel Wilkinson dies after collapsing on pitch

Non-league defender Daniel Wilkinson has died after collapsing on the field, his club Shaw Lane have announced.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, the Northern Premier League Division One South side said that Wilkinson, 26, "passed away after collapsing on the pitch" during a game on Monday night.

The league's official website said the player "suffered a suspected heart attack" and was treated by medics for over 30 minutes before being taken to Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax.

Barnsley-based Shaw Lane were facing Brighouse in a local cup match.

Chairman Craig Wood added in the statement: "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.

"The club would like to thank everyone for their heartfelt messages and thoughts that we have received throughout the night. There are no more words at this time."

The Football Association took to social media to express it's condolences saying: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of @SLAquaFC's Daniel Wilkinson. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends."

Monday's opponents Brighouse Town said in a statement: "Words are not enough to capture the complete sense of despair and desolation that surrounds the club this morning following last night's tragic event.

"Our thoughts and support also go out to our footballing friends at Shaw Lane and huge thanks also must be paid to the volunteers and emergency response teams who tried valiantly to save Dan's life. Rest in peace young man - the world is a poorer place without you."

Wilkinson began his career with Hull City before moving into non-league football.