Former Aston Villa star Jlloyd Samuel killed in car crash

Former Aston Villa and Bolton defender, Jlloyd Samuel has died in a car crash, Cheshire Police have confirmed.

Samuel, 37, a Trinidad and Tobago international, played for Villa between 1998 and 2007 and spent four years at Bolton.

He also had spells with Iranian clubs Esteghlal and Paykan.

Cheshire Police said officers had been called to a serious collision involving a van and a Range Rover in High Legh, Cheshire at 07:55.

“Sadly the driver of the car, Jlloyd Samuel, 37, from Lymm, died at the scene,” a statement said.

“His next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specially trained officers.”

Police said the 54-year-old driver of the van was being treated in hospital for serious injuries.

In a statement on its social media accounts, the Trinidad and Tobago FA said: “We’ve received some terrible news that former national defender and ex-Aston Villa and Bolton Wanderers player Jlloyd Samuel died in a car crash this morning in England.

“The TTFA and all his former teammates extends deepest condolences to his family in this most difficult time.”

Villa said tribute would be paid to Samuel at Tuesday’s Championship playoff semifinal second leg against Middlesbrough at Villa Park.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former player Jlloyd Samuel at the age of just 37 in a car accident,” a Villa statement said.

“Our players will wear black armbands as a mark of respect tonight, and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time.

A Bolton statement said: “Everybody associated with Bolton Wanderers Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former defender, Jlloyd Samuel. Rest in peace, Jlloyd.”

Footballers’ union the Professional Footballers’ Association extended its “sincere condolences” to Samuel’s family and friends, with the Football League saying it was “deeply saddened” by the news of his death.