MICKY DINGWALL, a former striker with Maidstone United, has died suddenly at the age of 49.

The schoolteacher, who won the Alliance Premier League with the Stones in 1983-1984, passed away three weeks after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. His death came less than 24 hours after he lost his father.

John Still, who managed Dingwall when he played for Dartford, paid tribute to him by describing him as the ultimate team player.

He said: "I was stunned to hear of Micky’s death at such a young age because he was as fit as a fiddle.

"For me he was the ultimate team player and because of that never received the praise he deserved. He gave everything to the team and never thought of himself.

"He was what I would describe as a low maintenance player because he was never difficult to manage and was easy to work with in training.

"Micky loved the dressing room banter so he fitted in perfectly with whoever he played for."