Michael Newberry: Cliftonville defender dies suddenly aged 27
Cliftonville defender Michael Newberry has died suddenly at the age of 27.
The England defender joined the club this summer and has made 24 appearances for the Reds.
Newbury began his career at hometown club Newcastle United and also had spells in Iceland with Vikingur before joining Linfield in 2021.
The former Northern Ireland Under-21 international spent three years with the Blues, winning the Irish Premier League twice.
Monday night’s Cliftonville game against Dungannon Swift and Linfield’s game against Larne have both been postponed.
Cliftonville said in a statement posted on the club’s website that they were “shocked”.
Their statement added: “Our condolences go out to Michael’s family and friends, the many teammates he played alongside throughout his career, and the fans who are shocked and saddened by this heartbreaking news.”
“RIP Newbs.”
Linfield said: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michael’s family and friends at this very sad time.”
The NI Rugby Football Union said they would like to express “our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, friends and everyone connected with Cliftonville Football Club at this sad time”.
