Morecambe's Christian Mbulu dies aged 23

Tributes have poured in for Morecambe defender Christian Mbulu who has been found dead at home.

The 23-year-old started his career at Brentwood Town before earning a move to Millwall.

While at the New Den he had loan spells and Braintree Town and Motherwell in the Scottish Premier League.

After signing for Crewe he then joined the Shrimpers on deal until the end of the season, making his debut on January 28.

Morecambe tweeted: “Everyone at Morecambe FC is deeply saddened to learn of Christian Mbulu’s death and would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this very sad time.”

Motherwell chairman Jim McMahon expressed his shock at the player’s tragic passing in a club statement.

“We are shocked to hear of the news of Christian’s death,” he said.

“He was such a friendly, pleasant young man who we loved having around Fir Park.

“Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. We hope their privacy is respected by everyone as they try to come to terms with their loss.”

Crewe also posted a heartfelt statement on their website saying: “He will be sorely missed because he was a top bloke, who had a real love for the game.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Christian at this incredibly sad time and may he forever rest in peace.”

Police were called to an address in Cottam near Preston this afternoon. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "We were called at around 1.30pm today (Tuesday, May 26) to an address on Greenfinch Avenue, Cottam, to reports of a sudden death.

"We attended and sadly found the body of a man aged in his 20s.

"There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and a file will be passed to the coroner in due course.

"Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this sad time."