In Amsterdam, a Welsh football player who was the “heart” of his club’s community has died. Swansea club Pontlive said it was “heartbroken and devastated” to announce the death of Charlie Bathcup, 30, who was a “player, club employee and dear friend”.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said it was supporting the family of a British man who died in the Netherlands and was in contact with local authorities. Welsh international Joe Rodon was seen wearing a shirt in honor of Charlie underneath his kit during the Euro 2024 qualifiers in Armenia on Saturday.

The football club on Sunday paid tribute to long-time Pontlliw player Charlie, saying he would “always be in our thoughts, now and forever”. The club’s full statement read: “Pontlive FC is heartbroken and devastated to announce that our player, club employee and dear friend, Charlie Betkap, has tragically passed away.

READ MORE: – The dark stories of people who ended up in court over television licenses

READ MORE: Nurse faces years of ordeal from controlling partner who even dictated what she ate

“Charlie was an important part of the club that cannot be described in words and his death has left a huge void at our club that we can never replace. A long-time Pontlee player with fantastic skills, Charlie was a huge asset on the field for every team he played for.

“Off the field, he was the heart of our club community and personified our spirit of camaraderie, inclusion and togetherness. It’s hard to imagine a day out, a social event or even a Saturday night without Charlie, and he will always be in our thoughts, now and forever.

“As difficult as it may seem for us now, we believe Charlie would want us to continue to develop this great club and achieve our future aspirations. His contribution has shaped this club over the years and we will often wonder in the future: ‘What would Charlie say?’ when a decision needs to be made. Thank you Charlie, you have enriched the lives of all our players and club members. Sleep in peace.”

An FCDO spokesperson said: “We support the family of the British man who died in the Netherlands and are in contact with local authorities.” Join our WhatsApp news community for the latest news.