Death of Scottish footballer, 27, leaves clubs in shock

Tributes have been flooding in for a Scottish footballer who has died suddenly at the age of 27.

Chris Mitchell, during his days with Falkirk. Picture: Michael Gillen

Former team-mates of Chris Mitchell, who played for Livingston, Falkirk, Queen of the South and Clyde, expressed shock at hearing of his death on Friday.

The circumstances remain unclear.

The midfielder made 18 appearances for Cumbernauld-based Clyde this season before leaving in January to focus on a new full-time job.

The club has announced a minute’s silence will be held before its League 1 play-off match on Tuesday night.

A statement from Clyde FC said: “Barry Ferguson, his staff and the players received the news when they were travelling back from Elgin, and are today still coming to terms with the loss.

“The thoughts of everyone connected with Clyde FC are with Chris’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”

A spokesman for Dumfries-based Queen of the South said: “Everyone at Queens is saddened to hear of the sudden death of Chris Mitchell, who was a double winner with us in 2013.”