Soccer fans are in mourning over the shocking news that player Tony Bedeau has tragically died suddenly.
The former Torquay United star was just 45 years old when he passed away unexpectedly.
Bedeau, who came through the youth ranks at Chelsea, enjoyed an impressive career.
The player earned legendary status at Torquay.
Bedeau also played for the likes of Barnsley, Walsall, Bury, Weymouth, and Kingstonian.
He also won four caps for playing for Grenada’s national team, which the English player qualified for via his father.
The former striker scored 65 goals in 374 appearances across two spells with Torquay.
He is known as one of the club’s greatest-ever players and ranks eighth in Torquay’s all-time appearances list.
And following the tragic news, tributes poured in for Bedeau from across the footballing world.
A Torquay club statement read:
“It is with deep sadness that Torquay United Football Club announces the passing of former striker Tony Bedeau at the age of just 45.
“Tony was a dynamic and exciting player who spent 10 years at the club during his first spell at Plainmoor between 1995 and 2006, before returning for the 2007-08 campaign.
“His pace, flair, and commitment on the pitch endeared him to the Gulls’ faithful, and he remains a beloved figure in Torquay United’s history.
“Tony’s passing has shocked all of us, and our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Torquay will hold a minute’s applause at Plainmoor ahead of their National League South game against Hornchurch on Saturday.
Gulls co-chairman Michael Wescott also paid tribute to Bedeau as he said:
“Tony was one of the most exciting players to have worn the yellow shirt – and one of my personal favorites.
“His pace and energy brought so much to the team, and he was much loved by our fans.
“We are deeply saddened by his passing.”
Wescott continued:
“He will forever be a part of Torquay United’s legacy, and we offer our sincerest condolences to his family and all those who knew him.
“Tony’s legacy will live on at Torquay United, and he will always be remembered fondly by everyone associated with the club.”
Elsewhere, James Constable, who played alongside Bedeau at Walsall, shared some more heartfelt words.
“Heartbreaking to hear of the passing of ex-team-mate and friend Tony Bedeau,” he said.
“He will be missed by everyone who knew him, honestly one of the nicest guys you could meet. RIP Beds.”
The Torquay United Supporters Trust added:
“We are devastated to hear of the passing of club legend Tony Bedeau.
“With over 300 appearances for the club, Beds was always known as a top player who gave it his all and was very highly regarded amongst the Yellow Army.
“Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.”
Walsall also paid tribute as they said:
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of former striker Tony Bedeau.
“Tony played for the Saddlers in the 2006-07 season, making 19 appearances and scoring 1 goal.
“Our thoughts are with Tony’s friends, family, and everyone at @TUFC1899.”
Brian Healy, a long-time team-mate of Bedeau at Torquay also expressed his sadness at Bedeau’s passing.
“Devastating news this morning that my former colleague passed away at such a young age,” he said.
“An absolute gentleman and a pleasure and a privilege to share the pitch with, it’s true the best go too soon.
“RIP Tony Bedeau absolute legend.”
Bedeau was born in London’s Hammersmith in 1979 and spent time on Chelsea’s books as a schoolboy.
He subsequently joined Torquay as an apprentice and made his senior debut at the age of 16.
Known for his pace and flair, Bedeau started to light up the lower leagues and was close to big-money moves to Sheffield Wednesday, Sunderland, and Oxford United.
However, he stayed loyal to the Gulls and helped them gain promotion from League Two in 2004.
Bedeau joined Walsall in 2006 following 11 years in Devon and although he struggled to replicate his best form, he helped the Saddlers to win League Two.
He returned to Torquay a year later and spent one season back at the club before he ended his career with Kingstonian in 2009.
No cause of death has been revealed.
All details surrounding Bedeau’s sudden passing have been withheld from the public.
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