Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the age of 26. While away on international duty, he fell ill in the town of Budva and was confirmed dead around 6.30am local time.

The news comes just 10 days after he shone for his country in a friendly against Belgium.

Despite Montenegro losing 2-0, Sarkic and was named man of the match after making a string of impressive saves.

The Grimsby-born player began his career at Anderlecht, before coming through the ranks at Aston Villa. His five-year spell at the club included loan moves to Wigan, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville and Livingston.

In 2020 he moved to Wolves and signed further temporary deals with Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City and Stoke. After briefly returning to Molineux, he joined Millwall last summer for an undisclosed fee.

And he soon established himself with the Lions, making 31 league appearances in the 2023/24 Championship campaign. The game against Belgium signified his eighth cap for his country.

His club have since released a statement on that read: “Millwall FC is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic, The Lions’ number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023.

“A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions. Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time. The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”

Millwall Supporters’ Club posted on X: “What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the young age of 26. Devastating news for his friends and family and for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion.”

The Aston Villa academy also posted: “Difficult to put the news of this morning into words. Former Villa goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Rest in peace, Mati. You and your family are in our thoughts.”

Despite being born in England, the stopper qualifier for Montenegro through his father, Bojan. Twin brother Oliver is also a professional footballer who has had stints with Leeds and Blackpool.