Former Newcastle United reserve team player Michael Newberry dies on 27th birthday

Michael Newberry, on the right in this picture, had been playing for Northern Irish side Cliftonville, with the club saying they are "devastated". Credit: NCJ Media

Former Newcastle United reserve team player Michael Newberry has died suddenly on his 27th birthday.

Newberry, who was born in Newcastle Upon Tyne, had been playing for Cliftonville in the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) Premiership.

The defender played for the north Belfast side as recently as Boxing Day but his death was confirmed by the club on Monday (30 December).

Newberry, who played for Newcastle's under-21s and under-23s, won caps for Northern Ireland at under-17 and under-19 level.

He won the prestigious 'Wor Jackie Award' - presented to the Magpies' best youth prospect - in 2016, before leaving in 2018 to pursue a professional career in Iceland.

Footballer Michael Newberry received the prestigious 'Wor Jackie Award' in 2016, at the time he said he felt "shell-shocked". Credit: NCJ Media

The Geordie departed during the Rafa Benitez era and signed for Icelandic side Víkingur Ólafsvík, before joining Linfield for three years, where he won two Irish League titles and two NIFL Cups.

A statement from Cliftonville FC read: "Cliftonville FC are devastated to learn of the sudden death of Michael Newberry. Our condolences are extended to Michael's family and friends, as well as the many teammates he played with during his career, and fans who will be shaken and saddened by this heartbreaking news. Rest in peace, Newbs".

Linfield FC said in a statement: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michael's family and friends at this very sad time."

The NIFL also passed on its "heartfelt condolences to Michael's family, friends and everyone connected with Cliftonville Football Club at this sad time".

After winning the Wor Jackie Award in 2016, Newberry said: "When you look at the names on it, I still get a little bit shell-shocked. My name is on there with the likes of Andy Carroll, it's a bit mad. I felt like I had a good year, but there were players in my team who also had good years."

Cliftonville's game against Dungannon Swifts and Linfield's match with Larne, scheduled to take place tonight, have both been postponed.

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