Doug Loft dies at 39 following medical emergency

Former professional footballer Doug Loft has died at the age of 39 following a medical emergency over the weekend. His passing was confirmed by his former clubs, Gillingham and Port Vale.

Loft was a prominent figure in English football, most notably serving as captain for Port Vale, where he made 196 appearances and helped the team achieve automatic promotion from League Two. He also played for Gillingham, Brighton & Hove Albion, Colchester United, and Shrewsbury Town.

Gillingham expressed condolences to Loft’s wife, Laura, and their two daughters. Port Vale has requested permission from the English Football League (EFL) to observe a minute of silence and for players to wear black armbands during their upcoming match against Chesterfield.