Wolverhampton Wanderers have released a statement following the death of the club’s former academy player Ethan McLeod in a car crash. The 21-year-old was involved in the fatal accident while driving home after a Macclesfield FC match at Bedford Town. The National League North team announced the tragic news on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.
In a statement on social media, Wolves said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod at the age of 21. Ethan joined Wolves’ academy at the age of seven and went on to sign a professional contract with the club, leaving in September 2024. Our thoughts and love go out to Ethan’s family, friends and everyone at Macclesfield.”
“Ethan’s younger brother Connor is currently in our Under-21 team and the whole club will provide care and support to him and his family. We will be holding a minute’s silence during Saturday’s first-team game against Brentford to remember and pay our respects to Ethan.”
The crash at 10.40pm on Tuesday night shut down the M1 for more than eight hours. Police are currently appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact them.
Macclesfield FC said in a statement: “It is with a very heavy heart and an overwhelming sense of surreality that Macclesfield FC can announce the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod. Last night, while returning from Bedford Town, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 and tragically lost his life. Ethan was an incredibly talented and respected member of the first team and had his whole life ahead of him.” he.
“But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone he came into contact with. Ethan gave his all in everything he did and effortlessly pushed all of us to be the best we could be on and off the pitch. Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic were appreciated by all. An inspiration, his zest for life brought smiles to our faces even on the darkest of days. The news of Ethan’s death has shocked our entire club and shocked us all. “Words cannot convey the immense sadness and loss we are all feeling right now.
“The deep emotional wounds caused by Ethan’s death will undoubtedly never heal, but one thing is for certain: his vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes into the future. Ethan will forever live in our hearts and minds, and no matter what the future holds. No matter what happens, his unique smile that captivated us all will never be forgotten. We would like to express our deepest sympathies and assure Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time. “We will provide all the support we can to those in need, Ethan, and you will forever be a Silkman.” ”
Other clubs also paid tribute to McLeod in response to Macclesfield’s X post, with Crystal Palace saying: “Our condolences go out to Ethan’s family, friends and everyone connected to Macclesfield at this very sad time. Rest in Peace Ethan.”
McLeod’s former team, Stourbridge FC, wrote in a post on X: “We are shocked to learn of the passing of former Grass Boys forward Ethan McLeod last night. Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends, everyone at Macclesfield and everyone who knew him. Rest in peace Ethan.”
