Premier League club with tragic connection confirm action after Ethan McLeod death

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Wolverhampton Wanderers will observe a one-minute silence ahead of their match against Brentford following the death of former academy player Ethan McLeod. The 21-year-old tragically died after being involved in a car accident .

McLeod's white Mercedes is understood to have collided with a barrier on the M1 near Northampton on Tuesday night. The northbound carriageway of the motorway was shut for more than eight hours following the crash at 10.40pm, and police are now appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward.

While McLeod departed Wolves in September 2024 following a 14-year stay, he maintained a strong connection with the Midlands side. The winger's brother, Conor, is part of Wolves' under-21 set-up.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod at the age of 21. Ethan joined @WolvesAcademy at seven years old and went on to sign professional terms at the club, before leaving in September 2024," the club said in a statement.

"We are sending our thoughts and love to Ethan’s family, friends and everyone at Macclesfield. Ethan’s younger brother Conor is currently in our under-21 squad and the whole club will be providing care and support to him and his family.

"We will observe a minute’s silence at Saturday’s first-team fixture against Brentford, to remember and honour Ethan."

McLeod came through the Premier League side's academy before joining Macclesfield, who play in the National League North. During his time with Wolves, he went on loan to Alvechurch and, following his exit, played for Rushall Olympic and Stourbridge last season.

He joined Macclesfield in July after a successful trial and made three appearances for the Silkmen, finding the net once. The team expressed their sadness over McLeod's passing.

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Macclesfield said in a statement: "With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism that Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod. Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 which tragically took his life.

"Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him. But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with. In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be - both on and off the pitch.

"Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces - even on the darkest of days. News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.

"The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal - but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future. Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten.

"Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, together with an assurance that we will provide as much support as we can to those who need it. May you rest in peace Ethan - you will forever be a Silkman."

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