MILWALL issued a heartbreaking statement to confirm the death of goalkeeper Matija Sarkic at 26.
The eight-cap Montenegro star reportedly fell ill while on international duty in the town of Budva.
And his current club Millwall broke the news of the tragic passing online.
A statement read: "Millwall football club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26.
"Sarkic, The Lions' No1 goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.
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"A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.
"Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija's family and friends at this immensely sad time.
"The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija's family is respected."
West Ham responded in a social media post: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of Matija Šarkić.
"Our condolences to everybody at Millwall as well as Matija’s family and friends."
Former club Birmingham added: "Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to learn of the news that our former goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, has passed away at the age of 26.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all those that knew him."
Millwall Supporters' Club posted on X: "What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the young age of 26. Devastating news for his friends and family and for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion."
Sarkic was named man of the match in his last outing for Montenegro as he made nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Euro 2024 hopefuls Belgium.
He began his career in Anderlecht's academy before being snapped up by Aston Villa in 2015.
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The Grimsby-born stopper joined Wolves in 2020 and found form in loan spells with Shrewsbury, Birmingham and Stoke.
That convinced Millwall to make a permanent move last summer and Sarkic made 33 appearances for the Lions.
