Tributes paid after death of ex-Arsenal youth striker Vigar

The death of Chichester City FC player Billy Vigar has "completely sent the club in a spin", say fans.

Former Arsenal academy striker Vigar sustained a "significant brain injury" after colliding with a concrete wall during an away match at Wingate and Finchley FC last Saturday.

The cause of the 21-year-old's injury has not been officially confirmed, but he died on Thursday after several days in an induced coma.

James Wilson, Chichester City season ticket holder said: "Nobody should be able to go and play the sport they love and not come home again. It's just so, so tragic. So young, so talented."

Floral and card tributes to the Worthing-born footballer have been left at Chichester City's ground.

A petition calling for a ban on brick walls around football pitches has received more than 2,300 signatures.

Launched by Jack Mison, it states: "Billy's passing is not an isolated incident—countless players at all levels have suffered serious injuries, including broken bones, concussions, and life-altering trauma, as a result of these dangerous barriers.

"These walls serve no essential sporting purpose, yet they create an undeniable and avoidable hazard."

Luke Griggs, chief executive of brain injury charity Headway UK, said this "tragedy has to be the catalyst for further discussions" about how to mitigate the risk of such head injuries.

He said: "This is the second such incident in the last few years, with Alex Fletcher of Bath City experiencing career ending injuries through a similar incident...

"Lower league football or rugby clubs with small, traditional grounds cannot be expected to rebuild their stadiums overnight, but there must be more accessible, affordable ways to mitigate the risk of this kind of injury."

Mr Wilson, who did not attend the game, added: "In a way I'm almost glad I wasn't there... I can't imagine what the players must be going through."

Wingate and Finchley said everyone at the club is "deeply saddened" by the 21-year-old's death.

"Our sincere condolences go out to Billy's family, and to our friends at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time," the club posted on X.

Chichester City, whose match against Lewes on Saturday has been postponed, posted on X: "Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club."

Tributes have come from many corners of the football world, including Vigar's former clubs Arsenal, Derby County, Eastbourne Borough and Hastings United.