Former Port Vale and Gillingham captain Doug Loft has died aged 39 following a medical emergency, prompting tributes from both clubs and former team-mates.
Loft, who is survived by his wife Laura and their children, Freya and Amelie, played 196 times for Port Vale between 2009 and 2014 and captained the club for two years.
Port Vale said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former captain, Doug Loft, who passed away at the age of 39 following a medical emergency.
“We send our love to Doug’s family, friends and former team-mates at this difficult time. RIP Doug.”
The club later shared a video tribute to Loft, who returned to his native Kent after leaving Vale to join Gillingham. He was appointed captain on his arrival.
Gillingham said Loft had “died suddenly following a medical emergency over the weekend”, adding: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Doug’s wife Laura, their children Freya and Amelie, along with his friends and family at this very difficult time.”
Loft also represented Brighton, Colchester and Shrewsbury Town before ending his playing career with Tonbridge Wells in 2023. He made 421 senior appearances and scored 32 goals.
His career included a serious incident in 2014, when he suffered a broken cheekbone and severe facial injuries during a training-ground clash with Port Vale team-mate Daniel Jones, who was subsequently sacked.
Former Gillingham team-mate Leon Legge paid tribute on social media, writing: “Life is so short. A former team-mate passed away and literally only a couple of years between us. 39 is way too young.” He added: “Top team-mate.”
Jamie O’Hara, who coached and played alongside Loft at Billericay Town, said he was “devastated” by the news and described Loft as “one of the good guys in football”.
Port Vale have asked their players to wear black armbands and observe a minute’s silence before this weekend’s match against Chesterfield. Gillingham’s next home fixture is against Port Vale on October 20.
