Former Premier League midfielder Whittingham dies aged 35

A former Cardiff City player is dead.

Cardiff City announced on Thursday that their former midfielder Peter Whittingham died after suffering a head injury earlier this month.

Whittingham suffered nasty head injuries when he accidentally fell at a pub in Barry on March 7 and was moved to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.

“It is with an immeasurable amount of sorrow that we must inform supporters that Peter Whittingham has passed away.

 “First and foremost, Peter was a family man - and somebody who could light up a room with his sense of humour, warmth and personality. Then, as a professional footballer - as a Bluebird - he excelled with talent, ease, grace and humility. Nobody did it better.

“The loss of Peter will be painfully felt by our city, supporters and indeed all who ever had the pleasure of knowing him. We love you Pete and your memory will eternally stay with us,” Cardiff said in a statement.

Whittingham died aged 35, leaving behind his wife Amanda and a young son.

“The news of Peter’s sudden and untimely passing has shaken us to our very foundation. Our love goes out to his wife Amanda, their young son and family. They are at the forefront of our thoughts and, on their behalf, we ask for their privacy to be respected at this unfathomably cruel and difficult time.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who was in charge of Cardiff in 2014 sent his condolences to the family of the fallen giant, describing Whittingham as an incredible human being.

“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Peter Whittingham. Peter was a fantastic footballer and an incredible human being. I thoroughly enjoyed working with him during my time at Cardiff City.

“It’s hard to believe that he has been taken from us at such a young age. Peter will be deeply missed and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time,” said the Manchester United manager.

Aaron Ramsey, the Juventus, Wales midfielder and a former Arsenal star posted on his official Instagram account: “I will forever be grateful for you taking me under your wing. You were one of the most technical and gifted players I’ve played with and that left foot of yours was like a wand.

“I’m proud to have played alongside you and will always remember the young vs old games and you just running the show. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family, rest in peace Whitts was too young.”

Whittingham, a youth product of Aston Villa and an England youth international, spent five seasons in the Premier League before moving to Cardiff where he spent the majority of his career, helping the club (Cardiff City) reach the FA Cup final in 2008.

The midfield maestro made 457 appearances for the club, scoring 96 goals and providing 93 assists in 11 seasons.