A former Manchester City striker and Premier League star has sadly died at the age of 59 as his former clubs paid a touching tributes to the player who made his debut at just 16

A former Manchester City striker and Premier League star has sadly died at the age of 59. His former clubs paid touching tributes to the player who made his debut at just 16.

Darren Beckford's death was announced by his former clubs on social media on Sunday. The Manchester-born forward came through City's youth academy and made his first-team debut in 1984 at just 16 years old.

He went out on loan to Bury and Port Vale before securing a permanent switch to Vale in 1987, kicking off an impressive four-year stint where he turned out more than 150 times. After two years at Norwich, Beckford moved to Oldham in 1993 for £300,000, making 52 appearances and netting 11 goals.

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He departed Boundary Park in 1996 and headed north of the border to Hearts, where he found the net during their run to the Scottish League Cup final. He also had brief stints at Fulham, Walsall, Rushden and Diamonds, Southport, Total Network Solutions, Bury and Bacup Borough before hanging up his boots.

Darren is the brother of Jason Beckford, who pulled on the City shirt more than 20 times in the late 80s.

Manchester City paid tribute to their former academy star on X, posting: "Manchester City is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former City player and Academy graduate, Darren Beckford - truly one of our own. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Darren’s family and friends at this difficult time."

Oldham posted on X: "Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Darren Beckford. Darren made 52 appearances for Latics between 1993-1996. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Darren's family, friends and former teammates at this time. Rest in peace, Darren."

Port Vale expressed their grief, stating: "We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing for former player Darren Beckford who passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with Darren's friends, family and former team mates. He will of course be forever Valiant. RIP Darren."

An Oldham supporters' page commented: "Scored some important goals for us. Condolences go out to Darren's family and friends. Rest in peace, Darren."

The 1894 Group, a City supporters' collective, posted: "Darren Beckford, brother of Jason. Local lad who played for City in the 80s. So young. RIP."

While a City supporter reflected: "Manchester-born Darren was a prodigious young talent who came through the ranks at City, forming a formidable strike partnership with fellow youngster Paul Moulden. Together, they were a hugely exciting prospect, with many believing both had bright futures ahead of them.

"For those who remember Darren coming through City's youth ranks, he will always be remembered as a gifted young footballer with a natural ability to find the back of the net, and someone who was once tipped for a very bright future in sky blue. At times like this, football becomes secondary.

"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Darren's family, loved ones, former teammates, and all those fortunate enough to have known him. RIP Darren."