Club 'devastated' at player death

Mr Carter was an academy coach (photo courtesy Sunderland Echo)

Sunderland Football Club has paid tribute to former goalkeeper Tim Carter who was found dead last week.

The body of the ex-Black Cats player was discovered in bushes by a passer-by in Manchester on Thursday.

Police said they believed there were no suspicious circumstances and were not looking for anyone else in connection with the 40-year-old's death.

Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn said everyone at the club was devastated at hearing the news.

Mr Carter, who was recently appointed as Sunderland's academy goalkeeping coach, was reported missing from his home in Durham early on Thursday morning.

'Mr Nice Guy'

Mr Quinn said: "Everyone at this club is devastated since we learned of the passing of Tim last week.

"I had known Tim since our youth team days together in London and formed a stronger bond with him in my playing days at Sunderland and more recently in my present role.

"He was Mr Nice Guy around here with time for everyone. Please God, we hope he finds peace in his time now."

In a statement, Mr Carter's family said: "The family wishes to thank all supporters for their messages of sympathy and condolences at this very difficult time."

Mr Carter played 50 games for the Premiership club between 1987 and 1992.

He left two children aged four and eight and his wife, Gina.

His funeral is expected to take place next week.