Macclesfield forward Ethan McLeod has died after being involved in a car crash as he drove home after a game on Tuesday evening.

The 21-year-old collided with a barrier on the M1 last night, and was announced dead at the scene.

McLeod was travelling home following the Silkmen’s 2-1 win at Bedford Town, in which the young forward was named as a substitute.

“With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism that Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod,” a club statement read.

“Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 which tragically took his life.

“Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our First Team Squad, who had his whole life ahead of him.

“But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with.

“In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be – both on and off the pitch.”

Northamptonshire police said: “Witnesses are being sought after a driver sadly died following a single-vehicle collision on the northbound carriageway of the M1, near junction 15.

“At about 10.40pm on Tuesday, December 16, the driver of a white Mercedes car for unknown reason was in collision with the nearside metal barrier.

“Despite the efforts of members of the public and officers from Northamptonshire Police, the driver – a man in his 20s from the West Midlands – was pronounced dead at the scene.”

McLeod spent time in the academy of Premier League side Wolves before being released.

He went on to spend time with Rushall Olympic and Stourbridge before joining non-league side Macclesfield in July. Earlier this year, he played in the Baller League.