Teenage footballer dies during academy match

A 15-year-old footballer has died after collapsing during a match.

In a statement, Oxford United said its academy player, Amelia Aplin, collapsed during a game against Fulham at the club's training centre in Horspath on Saturday afternoon.

Amelia was "an enormously talented goalkeeper", a statement from the Junior Premier League added.

Its chief executive Martin Brock said: "She was a leader and a bright light in our all-stars programme... Our thoughts are with her family, her friends and her teammates at this unspeakably difficult time."

The league said her loss would be "felt deeply across our football community".

The statement added: "Amelia represented everything we hope to see in a young footballer: resilience, passion, and a strong team spirit.

"As a goalkeeper she played with courage and determination, and was a constant source of encouragement to her teammates

"Her presence on the pitch and within the all-stars programme made a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of playing alongside her."

Oxford United added: "We would like to place on record our appreciation for the efforts of the medical staff at both Oxford United and Fulham Football Club, along with the emergency services.

"The Club will offer support to Amelia's family, players, coaches and staff impacted by this tragic event.

"We would ask that the family's privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time."

Sunday's match between Oxford United Women and Real Bedford has been postponed.