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Ex-Liverpool star leads tributes to footballer, 17, who died after collapsing on pitch

Former Liverpool star Rhian Brewster has led the tributes to his cousin Kaylen Dennis, a promising footballer, 17, who died after collapsing on the pitch

[Kaylen Dennis]

Kaylen Dennis, 17, has died

Former Liverpool star Rhian Brewster has led the tributes after the death of Kaylen Dennis.

Dennis, 17, died on Wednesday (December 11) after he collapsed on the pitch during a game for Walthamstow Football Club. In a statement, Walthamstow said: "We are devastated to learn of the passing away of one of our U23 players, Kaylen Dennis during a game at the weekend.

"We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates and everyone that knew him." Sheffield United's Brewster, who was Dennis' cousin, dedicated his goal to the youngster after he scored for the Blades on Wednesday against Millwall.

[Rhian Brewster]

Rhian Brewster led the tributes(Image: Alamy Live News.)

Speaking after the game he said: "I want to dedicate that goal to my younger cousin. He passed away earlier today before the game, so that's one for him and the family.

"It's a very tough time for the family, but I played for him today, and I was very happy to come away with a goal, and that's for him."

After finding the net, Brewster had pointed to the sky in tribute to his cousin.

[Rhian Brewster]

Rhian Brewster left Liverpool for 23.5m(Image: Getty Images)

Coach Scott Chickelday said: "Heartbreaking to hear yesterday that a 17-year-old boy I had the pleasure of knowing with an unbelievable talent passed away on the football pitch yesterday.

"Kaylen Dennis was not just a talented footballer but was a great character and person! God bless Kaylen fly high champ."

While his youth side, Ryan FC, said: "We are so upset and devastated at Ryan FC. Kaylen started playing for us at 13 and we watched him progress into senior football playing for our partner club Walthamstow FC. His parents have been so supportive and all our thoughts are with them and their family."

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