Former Rochdale Midfielder Joe Thompson Passes Away at 36
The football world is in mourning today as it was announced that former Rochdale midfielder Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36. According to reports from the BBC, Thompson had been battling cancer for a third time, having been diagnosed with stage four lymphoma in April last year.
Thompson, who was born in Bath, began and finished his career with Rochdale, having three spells with the club. During his playing career, he twice recovered from cancer, only to be diagnosed again in 2022. The disease had spread to his lungs, and despite his best efforts, Thompson passed away peacefully at home on Thursday with his family by his side.
In a statement released by Rochdale, the club expressed their devastation at the news, saying: "We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality." The club went on to praise Thompson’s bravery and indomitable spirit, saying: "He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story."
Thompson’s family was clearly at the forefront of his life, and Rochdale paid tribute to his loved ones, saying: "Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae." The club’s thoughts are with Thompson’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.
As reported by the BBC, Thompson’s cancer diagnosis came five years after he retired from playing. Despite his retirement, Thompson remained a beloved figure in the football world, and his passing has sent shockwaves throughout the sport. According to the BBC, Thompson’s story has been an inspiration to many, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched during his career and beyond.
The news of Thompson’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the football world, with many paying their respects to a talented player and a remarkable individual. As the news continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Joe Thompson will be deeply missed by all who knew him. This article has been sourced from the BBC, who first reported the news of Thompson’s passing. The BBC’s article, which can be found at https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c5y08qxjgy8o, provides further details on Thompson’s career and his battle with cancer.
