Everyone connected with Ebbsfleet United is shocked and saddened to learn of the death of our former striker Michael Thalassitis.

Reports confirmed that the 26-year-old was found dead near his home in Essex.

All at the club wish to express our deepest sympathies to all the family and friends of Michael, which include many of our past and current playing and management staff.

Michael, who played for both ourselves and today’s opponents Boreham Wood, signed on a season-long loan in summer 2013 from Stevenage. He played in the 2013/14 promotion final against Dover Athletic, his last game for the club in which he was injured in the final moments.

The Cyprus U21 international was a key member of that side, scoring 11 goals in 46 appearances before playing for Margate, Chelmsford City and St Albans City amongst others. He went on to find fame as a contestant in reality TV show Love Island.