Shelbourne FC confirm death of U16 player Izzy Dezu
Wednesday 13 December 2017 19:00, UK
Shelbourne FC have confirmed 16-year-old academy player Izzy Dezu has died after he collapsed during a Dublin and District Schoolboys League U16 Premier Division game on Tuesday night.
He was taken ill during the second half and was given CPR by an off-duty fireman before being taken to hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
A statement from Shelbourne FC read: "We are heartbroken to have to confirm the news that our Academy U16 player, Izzy Dezu, collapsed and died during a match last night.
"The thoughts of everyone at Shelbourne FC are with his family and friends who have been devastated by his tragic loss. May he rest in peace."
A statement from Shelbourne FC's opponents, St Kevin's Boys Club, read: "All those present were extremely shocked by what happened especially his team-mates, his managers and the SKB players and staff.
"Everyone at St Kevin's Boys Club would like to extend their deepest sympathy to Izzy's family and friends as well as Shelbourne F C.
"May he rest in peace."
FAI chief executive John Delaney expressed his sympathy in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon:
"Everyone involved in Irish football is deeply saddened by the loss of Izzy Dezu at such a young age, particularly in these tragic circumstances.
"On behalf of the FAI Board and everyone in the Association, I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Izzy's family, friends, team-mates and his club, Shelbourne FC.
"We will pay a special tribute to Izzy at the next Senior Men's home international at the Aviva Stadium in 2018."
