A POPULAR young footballer has died, aged just 13. Heartfelt tributes to Mathew Blease from school friends and the world of youth football have flooded in. Mathew s parents Steve and Karen, of Bakers Grove, WGC, said they cannot believe the impact their

A POPULAR young footballer has died, aged just 13.

Heartfelt tributes to Mathew Blease from school friends and the world of youth football have flooded in.

Mathew's parents Steve and Karen, of Bakers Grove, WGC, said they cannot believe the impact their son has had on everybody.

Just hours after the Sir Frederic Osborn pupil's death, websites full of photos, poems and books of condolence had been set up by his classmates.

Dad Steve, a lecturer at Oaklands College, said: "Mathew had a special relationship with everyone.

"I think all of this stuff on the internet has helped his friends tremendously.

"They are suffering as much as we are."

Mathew died at the QE2 Hospital at 4am on Friday, it is not known what caused his death.

He was a healthy and cheeky youngster, who was not only an avid Manchester United fan, but a vital part of Panshanger Football Club.

Mum Karen said he would not only train and play himself, but would also coach the girls' team, sweep the changing rooms or help out in the kitchen.

"He was much a part of that club as anyone could be.

"He was Mr Panshanger."

Flowers for the former Springmead pupil have been left at his beloved club, at Moneyhole Park, and on the school gates.

A post mortem was due to be carried out on Tuesday and funeral details will then be released.

Mathew also leaves elder brother Mark, nan and grandad Eric and Flo and great-grandad Bill.