Aidan McCabe passed away suddenly last week at the age of 17.

A deeply moving tribute has been paid by the former club of a teenage footballer who tragically passed away last week.

Aidan McCabe, from Cumbernauld, died suddenly last week at just 17 years old. The former Airdrie FC youth player featured in their 2009 squad before going on to play for Cumbernauld Colts and Rossvale FC.

In a touching show of respect, Airdrie Community Club held a minute's applause in honour of their former player ahead of every one of their age group's matches on Saturday. Images captured youngsters, coaches and referees gathering around the centre circle to take part in the heartfelt tribute.

A poignant statement posted to their social media read: "Today, all matches played By Airdrie Community Club commenced the game with a minutes applause in memory of a former player Aidan McCabe.

"He previously played with our 2009 team and was a wonderful young man. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers got to his family and friends at this time.", reports the Record.

Aidan's devastated mum was left "touched" by the gesture, writing: "That was so touching for the teams to do this, my sincere thanks. He was always always football mad from a tot. Give your kids an extra kiss and cuddle."

A minute's silence was also observed at Harestane AFC 2009's fixture against Stirling Albion and Third Lanark U19's versus Giffnock SC U19s on Saturday. Dullatur Golf Club, of which Aidan was a member, announced they would be flying their club flag at half mast in his honour.

Tributes have poured in from across the footballing community in honour of the talented centre back.

An Airdrie FC spokesperson said: "We were deeply saddened to receive the news that Aidan McCabe, a former player with Airdrie Community Club's 2009 group, has passed away. Our thoughts are very much with Aidan's family and friends at this devastating time."

A Rossvale FC spokesperson added: "We were saddened to hear that former player Aidan McCabe, passed away a couple of days ago. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends."

Aidan's parents spoke of the young Celtic fan's passion for football while expressing their gratitude to his former clubs. His mum said: "Thanks Airdrie FC for remembering my beautiful boy.

"He played many a game at the stadium over the years. There's no words to describe the shock and grief.

"Football was his life, he was a 6 feet 7 inches centre back and was the fittest boy ever. It is just so unfair.

"Football was his life. I appreciate everyone's lovely words for my gorgeous boy."

His dad Graeme said: "Our hearts are broken and we miss our boy so much.

"We are all absolutely heartbroken but this wonderful gesture gives me heart in how much my boy was loved throughout the game."