Shock as brilliant footballer Izzy, 16 dies during match
President leads tributes to tragic up-and-coming star
Tributes to teeanger Izzy came from President, Given and clubs TRIBUTES were paid yesterday to a “brilliant” 16 year-old soccer player who died after collapsing during a match.
Izzy Dezu was appearing for Shelbourne FC Under 16s against St Kevin’s Boys on Tuesday when he became seriously ill.
It is understood he was treated pitchside by paramedics at the AUL Complex on Clonshaugh Road in North Dublin and later pronounced dead at Beaumont Hospital.
President Michael D Higgins, a passionate football supporter, led the tributes to the popular player and his family yesterday.
He said: “It is with great sadness that I have heard of the death of Izzy Dezu, a brilliant young member of Shelbourne FC’S Under 16 Academy.
“To his family, fellow players, friends and to Shelbourne FC, I offer my sympathy at their tragic loss.”
A flurry of tributes were also paid by friends, football clubs and an Irish footballing legend after his sudden and tragic passing.
Shelbourne FC said: “We are heartbroken to have to confirm the news that our Academy U16 player, Izzy Dezu, collapsed and died during a match at the AUL Complex last night.
“The thoughts of everyone at Shelbourne FC are with his family, friends, teammates and coaches who have been devastated by his tragic loss. “May he rest in peace.”
Meanwhile St Kevin’s Boys also issued a statement passing on their condolences to the club and said it’s “very sad for the whole game of football” when something this tragic happens.
The Whitehall club added: “We at St Kevin’s Boys FC would like to pass on our condolences to the family, friends and everybody at Shelbourne FC after Izzy Dezu collapsed and died in a game last night.
“It’s very sad for the whole game of football when something as tragic as this happens in a football match.
“We would like to thank all the people who rushed over and gave the best medical attention until the medics arrived.”
Legendary goalkeeper Shay Given posted: “@shelsfc Thoughts and prayers with Izzy’s family and friends and all @shelsfc #RIPIZZY.”
The FAI yesterday said the former Cherry Orchard FC player had been in fantastic form for his club this season and was widely regarded as one of the most promising players at this age level in the country.
FAI boss John Delaney said: “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.”