Former Newcastle United prospect Michael Newberry tragically dies aged 27

Cliftonville footballer Michael Newberry has died suddenly at the age of 27.

The death of Newberry, who came through Newcastle United’s academy ranks as a youngster, was announced by Cliftonville this afternoon on the defender’s 27th birthday.

The Belfast-born centre-back grew up in Newcastle but represented Northern Ireland internationally at youth level.

Newberry featured most recently in Cliftonville’s Boxing Day trip to rivals Crusaders in the NIFL Premiership, playing the full 90 minutes in the side’s 2-0 defeat.

Monday’s scheduled games in Northern Ireland involving Cliftonville and Linfield – another of Newberry’s previous clubs – have both been postponed as a mark of respect.

Cliftonville had been due to take on Dungannon Swifts in the NIFL Premiership, while league leaders Linfield were preparing to face Larne.

‘Cliftonville Football Club are devastated to learn of the sudden death of Michael Newberry,’ a statement from Cliftonville read.

Newberry completed a move from Linfield to Cliftonville earlier this year (Picture: Cliftonville FC)

The defender was considered a big prospect in Newcastle’s academy (Picture: Getty)

‘Our sincere condolences are extended to Michael’s family and friends, as well as the many team-mates he played alongside during his career, and supporters who will be shaken and saddened by this heartbreaking news at this most difficult of times. Rest in peace, Newbs.’

‘Linfield FC is devastated to learn of the sudden passing of our former player, Michael Newberry,’ a statement from Linfield read.

‘The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michael’s family and friends at this very sad time.’

The NI Football League passed on their ‘heartfelt condolences’ to Newberry’s loved ones in a statement on its official website.

Newberry left Newcastle for Icelandic club Vikingur Olafsvik in 2018 (Picture: Getty)

‘Everyone connected with the NI Football League pass on our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, friends and everyone connected with Cliftonville Football Club at this sad time,’ the statement said.

‘As a mark of respect, Cliftonville’s match against Dungannon Swifts in the Sports Direct Premiership tonight [Monday] has been postponed.

‘In addition, following a request from Linfield, and due to Michael’s time at Windsor Park and his close association with the Linfield players and staff – their match against Larne this evening has also been postponed.’

After leaving Newcastle in 2018, Newberry made his breakthrough in first-team football with Vikingur Olafsvik and went on to make over 60 appearances for the Icelandic outfit.

Comfortable playing at both centre-half and at right-back, Newberry went on to enjoy three years with Linfield before completing a move to Cliftonville in the summer.

Newberry won the prestigious Wor Jackie award in 2016 for his performances in Newcastle’s academy, where he was considered a huge prospect.

James Smith