Millwall FC concluded their 2023-24 season with a fifth consecutive win, symbolizing a turnaround from their earlier struggles. However, a sudden tragedy struck shortly after, as goalkeeper Matija Sarkic passed away at age 26 while vacationing in Montenegro. His unexpected death deeply affected his teammates and the coaching staff, particularly Andy Marshall, who considered Sarkic like a son. The club and its fans are grappling with the emotional aftermath of losing such a beloved and respected player at the pinnacle of his career.
"It was devastating," Andy Marshall, Millwall's goalkeeping coach, tells BBC Sport. Marshall forged a close relationship with Sarkic, which stretched across nine years and three different clubs. "He was like a son to me. It ripped the club apart."
"Considering we had a turbulent earlier part of the season and three managers and one caretaker, it was a brilliant end to the campaign," says Lions season ticket holder Phil Clarke.
"I remember seeing the news come through on social media," says Clarke. "My son and I were in total shock."
Minutes later Casper de Norre pounces at the other end to earn a 1-0 victory and send Millwall fans into the summer in buoyant mood after a fifth straight win.
Collection
[
|
...
]