Tributes have been pouring in after a young footballer died suddenly at the weekend during a match.
Michael Palmer (23) collapsed during the game between his team of Crowland Town Reserves and Leverington.
He never regained consciousness and despite the best efforts of everyone involved, the football community across South Holland is in mourning.
His father Mike said Michael would always find the time to be there for those he loved and cared for.
“He loved his friends, his family and his colleagues and it is clear from all the messages since that Michael is loved equally in abundance by all of them, from his young nephew through to his grandfather and all the brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles and friends in between.
“With a great sense of humour, Michael would always find a joke in a situation,” he said.
Michael was passionate about football with Crowland FC and Manchester United in equal measure.
“With me as a Tottenham supporter, we would joke that he was a glory hunter,” said his dad.
“Michael will be missed and his family and friends have a void that cannot, and will never, be filled. But the memories we hold of him with stand the test of time.
“As a man, he lived up to the principles and values that he had grown up with, and was a son, grandson, uncle, nephew, brother, friend and cousin that all could look up to, respect and admire.”
“His family are proud of the man he had become and the world today is a little darker with his passing.”
Michael’s family have been inundated with messages of support from the wider footballing community.
Crowland Town FC posted on soclal media: “As some of you may already be aware, Crowland Town FC tragically lost one of our family members playing the game he loved.
“Our player Michael Palmer tragically collapsed during the game and never regained consciousness.
“He was the most kind, caring person and a passionate Manchester United fan and always strived to achieve the best he could and will be greatly missed by all at the club and the local football community.
“A huge thank you to Leverington FC players and staff for their help and respect. Our thoughts are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time,” said a club statement.
Match referee on the day Matt Elderkin said everything was done to try and help Michael.
“Nobody should never not come home from a football game.
“My thoughts and prayers go to Michael’s family and friends. I would like to add the conduct of both teams and players is something they should be proud of.”
There was also a tribute from Whaplode Drove Rovers saying he was ‘a good man filled with love.’
“It was hard not be in awe of him whenever he laced up and graced our grass. He offered leadership and guidance to those around him and truly changed the dynamic of our family,” said a statement.
Whaplode Rovers’ statement added: “His passion for football was undeniable, admirable even. We were fortunate enough to have him represent us as our Reserves team captain and Peterborough Sunday Team regular. Every performance his vigour and his roar deafened those around him, he was a managers’ dream, always constructive, always developing and always helping.
“Football ran through him, it never faded and it never will. We as a club hope to continue to play with the passion he inspired, and with that we know that his memory will forever live and play with us. He’s gone far too soon, but his lessons that he taught us will last an eternity.”
Growing up in Holbeach, Michael attended the former George Farmer school and then worked for tenant services company Goodlord where he had recently been promoted.
He leaves sisters Tanayaih-Louise and Shannon-Marie, brother Marcin, aunt and uncle Marina and Steve Mackelden and best friend Harry Grigas.
He was also close to his grandfather, Michael snr and his nephew, Logan Cornes (7).
His father said there would not be a funeral, but plans were being laid for a memorial service at Crowland Town FC to remember him.
“Michael’s loss will be forever felt, and as our hurt fades to scars, his light will shine the brightest in our galaxy of stars. And though we will move forward, we will take solace in this pain, that Michael will never be forgotten and we will remember his name,” said Michael.
