Wigan Athletic have been rocked by the sudden and unexpected passing of goalkeeper coach Kevin Miller.
Miller only linked up with the Latics over the summer to reunite with former Exeter City boss Gary Caldwell having stepped down as goalkeeper coach for the Grecians in June.
"Everyone at Wigan Athletic is deeply saddened and devastated to learn about the sudden passing of Goalkeeping Coach Kevin Miller," a statement read on Wigan's official website.
"Kevin joined the Club earlier this summer, linking up with Gary Caldwell, a close friend and colleague, and the wider First-Team staff after more than three years as Goalkeeping Coach at Exeter City and an impressive playing career that spanned over 18 years.
"Although KevinâÂÂs time with Latics was far too short, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our First-Team staff. His experience, professionalism and passion for goalkeeping were clear for all to see, while his uplifting personality made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
"In a playing career of almost two decades, Kevin made more than 700 career appearances, including in the Premier League. He began his professional career with Exeter City, helping the Club to the Fourth Division title, before going on to represent Birmingham City, Watford, Crystal Palace, Barnsley, Bristol Rovers, Derby, Southampton and Torquay.
"Following an impressive career, Kevin moved into coaching and management, eventually returning to St James Park as Goalkeeping Coach in 2022, where he was able to pass on the considerable knowledge and experience he had gained throughout his career to the next generation of goalkeepers.
"KevinâÂÂs contribution to football was significant, but for those who worked alongside him, it was the person he was that will be remembered most. Kevin was a husband, father, hugely respected colleague, dedicated coach and someone who made a genuine impact on those around him, both on and off the pitch.
"His sudden passing has left everyone at the Club deeply saddened and devastated.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with KevinâÂÂs wife, Fiona, daughter, Esme, close family, friends, colleagues and all who knew and loved him.
"The Club asks for total privacy for KevinâÂÂs family and friends at this difficult time.
"Everyone at Wigan Athletic sends its deepest condolences to KevinâÂÂs loved ones."
Exeter City's statement
Exeter also paid tribute to the 57-year-old, stating: "Kevin was an incredibly popular figure during his time at St James Park, earning a place in the hearts of supporters with his performances between the posts and his wholehearted commitment to the club.
"At just 57, his passing is a huge loss to his family, friends and everyone who knew him. Exeter City Football Club sends its deepest condolences to Kevin's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are also with Gary Caldwell and our former staff at Wigan Athletic.
"The club will be supporting those who were close to Kevin and will be commemorating KevinâÂÂs time with us and his memory in an appropriate way.
"Once a Grecian, always a Grecian."
Teams and individuals pay respects
A number of teams and individuals took to social media to pay their respects to the former Exeter shotstopper.
"Wigan Warriors would like to share our condolences following the sad news of the passing of goalkeeper Coach Kevin Miller," the official Wigan Warriors account posted.
"Our thoughts are with those at Wigan Athletic, Kevin's family, friends and colleagues at this sad time."
Former side Barnsley FC, meanwhile, wrote: "Our thoughts are with everyone at Wigan Athletic and Kevin's family. Tragic news. Once a Red, Always a Red."
Former Alan Tonge, who played for Exeter before retiring at 24, posted: "RIP Big Kev. Devastated."