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Tributes have poured in after Irish League footballer Jerry Thompson died suddenly at the age of just 24.

Thompson, who played for Carrick Rangers, is understood to have died on Tuesday.

The 24-year-old was hugely popular on the Irish League scene, and was having a good season, having been named man of the match in Carrick's win over Institute on Saturday.

Thompson had been due to play for Carrick against Glenavon on Tuesday night.

Carrick Rangers described Thompson as a "larger than life character" who will be "fondly remembered".

In a statement, the club said: "Carrick Rangers Football Club is saddened by the very untimely sudden passing earlier today of our friend and player Gerard Thompson.

"Gerard, or Jerry as he was more affectionately known, joined the Club earlier this season and became an instant hit with his teammates and our supporters.

"He was a larger than life character who brought a fantastic energy and commitment to our club.

"Although he was only with us for a short time, he will be fondly remembered by everyone associated with Carrick Rangers FC.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Jerry's family and friends at this difficult and sad time. Rest in peace, Jerry. You will forever be a member of the Amber Army. #JT21."

Carrick manager Niall Currie tweeted: "Forever u will be in my heart young man. An absolute pleasure to have from day one. My heart is broken."

And teammate Guillame Keke posted a photograph of Thompson with the simple message: "I love you."

More tributes flooded in from across the Irish football scene.

Glentoran Football Club said: "We're saddened to learn that Jerry Thompson has tragically passed away and extend our sympathy and condolences to his family, friends and team mates at @CarrickRangers and all former clubs."

Northern Ireland midfielder Jordan Thompson tweeted: "Terrible news about young Jerry Thompson. Thoughts are with the family & friends."

Former Cliftonville and Sligo Rovers manager Gerard Lyttle added: "Another young life taken far to early. Horrible news coming out of North Belfast tonight. How can we do more for these young people? Please God look after young Jerry’s family at this sad time. RIP young Man."

Cliftonville striker Joe Gormley said: "If only you knew how much people loved you Jerry, please look over your family your little boy and Samantha. thoughts and prayers."

Crusaders defender Chris Hegarty said on Twitter : "R.I.P Jerry Thompson.. heart breaking news for his family, friends and football community."

Linfield goalkeeper Gareth Deane added: "Sad night for The Northern Ireland football community. Thoughts are with all at @CarrickRangers and family of Jerry Thompson. Another great talent taken to soon."

Blues teammate Andy Mitchell said: "Absolutely Heartbreaking. Thoughts are with all involved with Jerry. Especially his family circle & friends at this very sad time."

Crusaders midfielder Philip Lowry tweeted: "Absolutely awful news about Jerry Thompson tonight...Thoughts with all his family, friends and everyone at @CarrickRangers."

Linfield's Matthew Clarke added: "Awful news about Jerry Thompson tonight. Thoughts and prayers are with all his family, friends and all @CarrickRangers."

A number of other clubs expressed their shock and sympathy, including Dungannon Swifts who tweeted: "Dungannon Swifts FC would like to pass on our sincere condolences to the family, friends and team mates, of @CarrickRangers player, Jerry Thompson. We as a Club are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of his sudden passing this evening."

Thompson joined Carrick in the summer and quickly emerged as a fans' favourite at Taylors Avenue.

The versatile left-sided player began his Irish League career with Cliftonville before having spells with clubs including Larne and Portadown.

Former club Larne shared their own memories of Thompson with a special tribute on their official website.

"He will both be sorely missed and fondly by those who knew him," the Inver Park outfit said.

"This is true both Larne Football Club and right across the Irish League."

Anyone who needs to talk to someone about mental health issues can call the Samaritans on 116123.