Derry tribute to McBride

DERRY CITY have paid tribute to captain Ryan McBride, who has died at the age of 27.

McBride, below, is understood to have passed away at home on Sunday. A cause of death is not yet known.

The defender will be remembered as one of the League of Ireland Premier Division side’s all-time greats, the club said.

“Derry City Football Club are deeply saddened by the untimely death of our captain, Ryan McBride,” said the club in a statement. “Our prayers and thoughts are with his father, Lexie, his sisters Colleen, Siuinin and Caitlain, and his partner Mairead, who are heartbroken at his loss.

“We are also conscious of his team-mates and our management and support staff. Ryan was a player and a great captain but he was also their friend and team-mate. They are deeply shocked and will miss his inspiration and his leadership.

“Our supporters are also shocked and saddened. “To them, Ryan was Derry City through and through.

“In the hearts and minds of all of us and long into the future, Ryan McBride will be remembered as one of the greats of Derry City Football Club.” WATFORD are close to a permanent move for Everton’s £8million-rated Tom Cleverley, 27. Cleverley’s loan deal will see him trigger a full-time switch once he has reached double figures in appearances. He has played eight times since his January arrival. The former England player, left, is keen to stay, saying: “I’m realistic as there’s a lot of midfielders at Everton. I’m now playing and really enjoying my football at Watford.”