Former Hereford FC player/coach Chris Barker has died, aged just 39.
The former Cardiff City, QPR, Plymouth and Southend defender joined the Bulls at the start of the 2016/17 season after serving as assistant manager at Aldershot.
Originally he had a trial at Hereford in 2013 but decided to stay with Southend.
"This
is a fantastic signing for us” said manager Peter Beadle in June 2016.
"Chris has
a wealth of experience that could prove invaluable to our young squad.
Not only is he a very talented player who can play in a number of
positions across the back four, but he will also be a fantastic addition
to our coaching set up.”
Originally he had a trial at Hereford in 2013 but decided to stay with Southend.
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| Barker On Trial With Hereford United In 2013 |
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| Chris Barker At Barnstaple In August 2016 |
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| Barker Controls The Ball In A Game Against Alvechurch |
"Barks has been given an opportunity to further his coaching career with a step back up to a managerial role," said Beadle.
He quit Weston in June 2017 and was then appointed Assistant Manager at Forest Green Rovers' Academy.
World in Motion, the sports management agency who represented Barker throughout his 18-year career, tweeted:
"It is with great sadness that we learn of the untimely and tragic passing at the age of 39 of Chris Barker.
"Chris was a client throughout his outstanding playing career of over 500 League games
"Moreover, Chris was a wonderful person, an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to work for."
South Wales Police have released a statement.
“Police can confirm the sudden death of a 39 year-old man who was discovered at his home address in the Cyncoed area of Cardiff at approximately 2pm on New Year's Day.
“His death is not being treated as suspicious and the Coroner has been informed.”