Tributes made to ex-Arsenal and Chichester striker Billy Vigar

The death of Chichester City FC player Billy Vigar has “completely sent the club in a spin”, say fans.

Former Arsenal academy striker Vigar sustained a “significant brain injury” during an away match at Wingate and Finchley FC last Saturday.

It is thought the injury was caused when he collided with a concrete wall, but the club has not confirmed this. The 21-year-old died on Thursday after several days in an induced coma.

James Wilson, Chichester City season ticket holder, said: “Nobody should be able to go and play the sport they love and not come home again. It’s just so, so tragic. So young, so talented.”

Floral and card tributes to the Worthing-born footballer have been left at Chichester City’s ground.

A petition calling for a ban on brick walls around football pitches has received more than 4,000 signatures.

Launched by Jack Mison, it states: “Billy’s passing is not an isolated incident—countless players at all levels have suffered serious injuries, including broken bones, concussions, and life-altering trauma, as a result of these dangerous barriers.

“These walls serve no essential sporting purpose, yet they create an undeniable and avoidable hazard.”

Michael Stemp, from Bognor Regis, says he supports the recently-launched petition.

“I think that’s very sensible, I think this is long overdue…a few years ago there was a player at Bath [Alex Fletcher] who was badly injured,” he said.

Luke Griggs, chief executive of brain injury charity Headway UK, said this “tragedy has to be the catalyst for further discussions” about how to mitigate the risk of such head injuries.

He said: “This is the second such incident in the last few years, with Alex Fletcher of Bath City experiencing career ending injuries through a similar incident…

“Lower league football or rugby clubs with small, traditional grounds cannot be expected to rebuild their stadiums overnight, but there must be more accessible, affordable ways to mitigate the risk of this kind of injury.”

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has called for a formal investigation into the incident.

Chief executive of the PFA, Maheta Molango, said: “When the time is right, we will offer any assistance we can as part of any investigation process, specifically information that may be helpful regarding the safety of players in grounds.”

Mr Wilson, who did not attend the game, added: “In a way I’m almost glad I wasn’t there…I can’t imagine what the players must be going through.”

Mr Stemp says he feels “very cut up” by Vigar’s death.

“It’s so sad for a youngster of only 21,” he added.

Wingate and Finchley, which has postponed its match against Canvey Island FC on Saturday, said everyone at the club is “deeply saddened” by the 21-year-old’s death.

“Our sincere condolences go out to Billy’s family, and to our friends at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time,” the club posted on X.

Chichester City, whose match against Lewes on Saturday has also been postponed, posted: “Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club.”

Tributes have come from many corners of the football world, including Vigar’s former clubs Arsenal, Derby County, Eastbourne Borough and Hastings United.