Team-mates and club members have paid tribute to much-loved footballer Jay Carr, describing him as a 'special person' on and off the pitch.

The 20-year-old from Snodland was found dead yesterday after being reported missing on Monday, prompting a flood of tributes from friends and teammates at Aylesford Football Club.

A message from the club was posted on Facebook today, stating: "We are devastated to confirm that one of our Club family Jay Carr sadly passed away on September 20. Jay and his family have been part of the club since the age of five.

"Naturally, our thoughts are with his family and we ask that their privacy is respected at this delicate time.

"Jay was a quiet lad off the field but a phenomenal driver and ball winner on the pitch...always running.

"As a club, we were lucky to share some great footballing moments in his life including a big smile on his face when we won the U15s league cup at Maidstone and the proud moment seeing him collect his 10 years of service award.

"Jay will be sorely missed by everyone at Aylesford Football Club, he was and always will be part of the Aylesford family. Rest easy Jay...."

Grant King, who was Jay's team coach for the past two seasons, said Jay has been a special person on and off the pitch.

"I’ve written out a post 5-6 times and deleted it," he said, in his own Facebook tribute. "I couldn’t quite find the words to say. You were a special sort of person Jay. On the pitch…. Fiery, driven, hard working, determined. Off the pitch…. Kind, generous, happy, gentle natured. It was a privilege to have been your gaffer for the short time we had together.

"Through your football you’ve bought together friends for life. Until we’re all kicking a ball together again, rest easy brother Jay Carr."

Teammate Billy Reynolds added: "Jay Carr you was a great lad, you wasn't just a team mate but you was also a friend, you'll be forever missed. Until we meet again fly high."

Graham Martin, who had worked as assistant manager when Jay played at K Sports and Larkfield and New Hythe FC, said he was devastated to hear the news.

Speaking to KentOnline he said: "He was just a lovely lad, it's unreal. As a footballer he was competitive, very competitive and very reliable - he never missed training. He was very good socially too - he'd always be part of a team night out. As a sports person he was everything you should be."

And posting on Facebook he added: "JC you were a great lad to know and it was a pleasure to work with you on the football pitch. REST IN PEACE SON XX."