Macclesfield have announced the tragic death of 21-year-old player Ethan McLeod in a car accident.

McLeod’s white Mercedes is understood to have collided with a barrier on the M1 near Northampton on Tuesday night.

Macclesfield said in a statement: “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. 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.

“Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days. News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire Club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.

“The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future. Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten.

“Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, together with an assurance that we will provide as much support as we can to those who need it. May you rest in peace Ethan – you will forever be a Silkman.”

Ethan McLeod joined Macclesfield in July ( 
Image:
Instagram)
The northbound carriageway of the M1 was shut for more than eight hours following the crash at 10.40pm on Tuesday night. Police are now appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact them.

McLeod came through the academy at Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Macclesfield, who play in the National League North. He spent 10 years in the Wolves academy, before playing for Alvechurch on loan and for Rushall Olympic and Stourbridge.

Wolves confirmed that they will hold a minute’s silence before their game against Brentford on Saturday. “We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod at the age of 21. Ethan joined @WolvesAcademy at seven-years-old and went on to sign professional terms at the club, before leaving in September 2024,” the club wrote.

“We are sending our thoughts and love to Ethan’s family, friends and everyone at Macclesfield. Ethan’s younger brother Conor is currently in our under-21 squad and the whole club will be providing care and support to him and his family. We will observe a minute’s silence at Saturday’s first-team fixture against Brentford, to remember and honour Ethan.”

He joined Macclesfield in July following a successful trial and had made three appearances for the Silkmen, scoring one goal. The team won 2-1 at Bedford on Tuesday night before travelling back.

Ethan McLeod joined Macclesfield in July ( 
Image:
Macclesfield FC)
Rushall Olympic wrote on X: “We are absolutely devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod in the past 24 hours. Ethan was a history-maker for us, scoring the winning penalty against Peterborough Sports to send us to the First Round of the FA Cup last season.

“His name will be etched into the history books of our club forever. We will be remembering Ethan at our home game against Leek Town on Saturday. Our thoughts are with all of Ethan’s friends and family and Macclesfield FC at this tragic time. RIP Ethan.”

Alvechurch added: “Absolutely horrific news. Difficult to believe how such a tragedy could befall such a fine young man. Our hearts are broken Ethan and our thoughts and prayers are with your friends and family. Rest in eternal peace.”

Stourbridge: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Glassboys forward Ethan McLeod last night. Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends, everyone at @thesilkmen and all those who knew him. Rest in peace, Ethan.”