Lasley shocked by death of former Fir Park player Mbulu

KEITH LASLEY admits he has been left been left ‘numb’ by the death of Christian Mbulu as he paid tribute to the former Motherwell player’s infectious energy and positivity.

The Fir Park assistant manager has described Mbulu as a ‘coach’s dream’ on and off the pitch, and was shellshocked to learn of his passing at the age of 23 on Tuesday evening.

That sense of disbelief has ravaged the entire club, with a host of players, staff and office employees having become close friends with the amiable Mbulu during his year in North Lanarkshire.

“Shocked and devastated are the only words I can think of,” said Lasley. “But I can’t honestly put into words how stunned we have been.

“For someone so young, fit and full of life to pass away just leaves us all numb.

“He was a joy in the dressing room and, from a coaching perspective, was a dream to have in the building.

“He exuded energy for anything he turned his attention to. Win, lose or draw, he brought joy, enthusiasm and was a real energy giver in the group.”

Mbulu, who was most recently on the books of Morecambe, joined Motherwell from Millwall in the summer of 2018, having previously turned out for Braintree on loan.

He struggled to make his mark in the first-team, making just six senior appearances, but Lasley is adamant his impact behind the scenes was unmistakable - and insists he was key in creating a culture of hard work and enthusiasm at Fir Park.

“When Christian came to us he didn’t play all that much but he always had an enthusiasm, an energy in training and a lust for life,” said Lasley.

“He was such a big part of the culture that we tried to bring to the club. Even if he didn’t start games, he was always supporting those who were. We’ve always tried to drive that mentality at the football club and