Former Limerick FC and Galway United defender Sam Oji has died at the age of 35.
The former Arsenal youth team player joined Limerick from Tamworth in 2013 before signing for Galway United two years later.
Oji made 57 appearances in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division during his time in the League of Ireland.
He returned to England in 2016 to join Worcester City and was most recently at Highgate United where he had been appointed as assistant manager to Simon Johnson.
All it is with a very heavy heart that I am deeply saddened to inform you, that our beloved Captain, Leader and Legend Samuel Oji has sadly passed away. The thoughts of all at Highgate United FC are with Sam's wife, children and family at this very sad time.
— Highgate United FC (@HighgateUnited) August 28, 2021
RIP Oji ?????????? pic.twitter.com/tayyp5M1vb
Galway United offered their condolences to Oji's family, describing him as a "hugely popular person and a gentleman".
Galway United would like to offer our condolences to the family and loved ones of Sam Oji. Sam scored for us in our first game back in the Premier Division in 2015 and was a terrific player in his time at the club. He was a hugely popular person and a gentleman. Rest easy, Sam. pic.twitter.com/3ziDrjd6Wz
— Gaillimh Aontaithe (@GalwayUnitedFC) August 28, 2021
Limerick FC also paid tribute to an "outstanding player and more importantly, an outstanding person".
Tragic news this morning as former Limerick F.C player Samuel Oji has passed away. Signed under Stuart Taylor, Sam was an outstanding player and more importantly, an outstanding person. Sincere condolences from all at the club go to his family, friends and loved ones. RIP ?? pic.twitter.com/cZoqLY74fI
— Limerick FC (@LimerickFCie) August 28, 2021
