Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has paid tribute to Ryan McBride following the passing of the Derry City club captain.
The 27 year old defender passed away a day after leading his side to a 4-0 win over Drogheda United in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division.
O'Neill says the news has affected his squad, with former Derry City winger James McClean having been a close friend of McBride.
"It is tragic. I didn't know the young lad personally myself, but James McClean is a very good friend of his," said O'Neill, who is a native of Co. Derry.
"James is devastated by the news, obviously his family is as well. It's a really tragic event.
"You get things like this almost on a daily basis and it puts football and sport in some sort of perspective.
"James, who is probably the closest to him and his family, if there's anything that he feels he wants to do, then I would certainly give him the time to do so."
The flags at FAI Headquarters flying at half mast as a mark of respect to Ryan McBride. pic.twitter.com/z80W9TC2Ax
— FAIreland (@FAIreland) March 20, 2017
The FAI also expressed their sympathies and condolences to McBride's family, friends and club.
"Irish football is in mourning with the loss of a true great of the game, with the shocking news about Ryan McBride's passing," said FAI CEO John Delaney.
"I would like to pass on my deepest condolences to Ryan's family, friends, and his club, Derry City FC, for which he was their leader, their captain and their inspiration.
"On behalf of the FAI Board and everyone in the Association, I would like to offer our sympathies to all who were blessed to have known Ryan.
"Ryan's passing has left a deep shock throughout football. We will remember Ryan with a tribute at Friday night's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Wales."
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