A football club has revealed the devastating news that one of its youth players has died at the age of just nine.

Ashford United FC announced last night that Felix Stevens “sadly passed away at the weekend.”

The youngster – described as a confident, hardworking, funny and happy boy – played for the club's under-10s team and attended Kennington Academy school.

This weekend, all teams in the Ashford and District Youth League will hold a minute’s silence in memory of him.

Ashford United posted an article on its website yesterday evening headlined: “Felix Stevens. Forever Nine. Forever Remembered.”

It says: “Felix was an extremely valued and hardworking member of the team and was able to play in multiple positions on the pitch with a huge amount of confidence.

“He was passionate and determined in every game he played. He was an integral part of the team and showed great leadership qualities.

“Felix was a funny and happy boy who was well respected.

“He will be really missed by the entire team, the coaches and the wider community.

“Our thoughts are with Felix’s family, friends, coaches and his team.”

Dozens of tributes to the popular young footballer have been paid on social media, with many expressing their shock at the heartbreaking news.

Kara Wigston said: “RIP Felix, we are devastated. Thoughts are with his family. I’m glad we got to watch you play football. Thank you Ashford United for describing him perfectly.”

“Thoughts are with your family, friends and all those little footballers who were lucky enough to have you as a teammate...”

Gemma Carter Collins described it as a “lovely write-up”, adding: “Fly high Felix and play that great pitch in the sky.

“Thoughts are with your family, friends and all those little footballers who were lucky enough to have you as a teammate. Still can’t believe it.”

Members of football clubs from outside Ashford have also shared their condolences.

John Ross said: “RIP fly high young man. Folkestone Invicta Youth FC send condolences to the family and friends.”

Ashford United says Felix started his football journey in June 2021 for Pilgrims Black under-8s and continued to play with them into the next season for the under-9s.

In August this year, Felix joined the Ashford United under-10s team.

The talented youngster also played for the school football team on many occasions.

A spokesman for Kennington Academy said: “Felix was a constant bundle of energy, full of life and laughter and was loved by his peers and staff alike.

“He was an immensely popular character both on our playgrounds and in our classrooms. An integral part of his class, year group and our school family, Felix will be missed by all, but remembered with such warmth and a wealth of happy memories.”