Barker who had an
“outstanding playing career” spanning 17 years and over 500 league games, died
at the age of 39.
The former English
professional footballer, Chris Barker who played as a defender for Cardiff and
Southend, has been found dead at his home in the city on New Year’s Day.
His death is not being
treated as suspicious.
The agency that represented
Barker when he was a player, World in Motion, announced his ‘untimely and
tragic passing’ on Twitter on Thursday morning.
“It is with great sadness
that we learn of the untimely and tragic passing at the age of 39 of Chris
Barker,” the statement said.
“Chris was a client
throughout his outstanding playing career of over 500 League games for clubs
including Barnsley, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers and Plymouth Argyle.
Moreover, Chris was a wonderful person, an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to
work for,” it added.
The South Wales Police
confirmed in a statement that Barker was found dead at his home on New Year’s
Day. But the cause is yet unknown and they said his death was not being treated
as suspicious.
Chris Barker made over 150
appearances for Cardiff during a five-year spell after joining from Barnsley in
2002.
Cardiff Football Club have
released a statement to offer their condolences to Barker’s friends and family.
“Cardiff City Football Club
has been deeply shocked and saddened at the passing of our former defender,
Chris Barker.”
“Chris was an extremely
popular player both on and off the field, serving the club with distinction
between 2002 and 2007. He was awarded the Cardiff City FC Player of the Season
award for his efforts during our 2004/05 campaign.”
“We offer our deepest
condolences to Chris’ family, friends, former team-mates and colleagues. He
will be greatly missed by us all.”
“Details of a Club tribute
to Chris will follow in the coming days. On behalf of Chris’ family, we’d ask
for them to be afforded privacy at this very difficult time.”
His former team-mates are
mourning his shocking death on social media.
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