Photo: Twitter/Leeds United
Former Carlisle & York City professional footballer Craig Farrell died at the age of 39, the clubs have announced on Monday.
Carlisle chairman Andrew Jenkins announced Farrell’s death on the club’s website.
“I am so sorry to hear this news, Craig was such a likeable young man and I think it’s fair to say we all wanted him to do well when Roddy [Collins] brought him over from Leeds,” Jenkins said. “He impressed everybody with his attitude and he settled quickly, scoring some good goals through his first season with us.”
“I remember him as someone who got his head down and worked hard, and I think we can all agree that 39 is such a young age. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very sad time,” he added.
Paul David Simpson, currently manager of Carlisle United, also shared his condolences.
“This is incredibly sad news. He was a really decent bloke and was a good lad to have in the group,” Simpson said. “I speak on behalf of everybody at the club when I say that our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
There is still no available information on the cause of Farrell’s death.
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Everyone at Carlisle United Football Club is deeply saddened this evening to learn of the passing of Craig Farrell.
Craig, 39, was with the Blues for just under three years scoring 24 goals in 95 appearances, which included a fine introduction to Brunton Park with a goal on his debut against Torquay having initially joined the club for a one-month loan spell from Leeds.
A total of four goals that month prompted discussions about a permanent move, and that was all finalised in November 2002 when he penned a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
That first season was his best with the club, with 14 goals netted in 41 appearances, but a run of five goals in seven outings through March and April 2004 was part of a revival under manager Paul Simpson which almost saved the club from the drop into the Conference, and it was a peak in form which confirmed him as a favourite with many of the fans.
Boro born Farrell started his career with his hometown club before being snapped up by Leeds at the tender age of 15.
He went on to play for Exeter, York, Oxford, Rushden and Telford when he moved on from Cumbria and latterly had spells with Hinckley United, Blyth Spartans and Whitby Town.