The family of former Trinidad and Tobago international Jlloyd Samuel who died in a car crash on Tueday morning have paid tribute to him describing him as a loving son, father and brother.
His family released a statement via Cheshire Police.
“Jlloyd was a loving son, father, husband and brother.He was also a respected ex-footballer and businessman who played for a number of clubs. He was extremely popular and well-loved by all who were fortunate to know him. Jlloyd leaves behind a family including a wife and four children who are devastated by their sudden loss.
– Family statement "Samuel was born in the city of San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago but moved to England as a youngster and represented London Schoolboys teams."
His son Lakyle is a member of Manchester City’s academy and will now be looked at to carry on his father’s legacy.
Lakyle was a member and captain of City’s Under 12 team which won the inaugural Prospects Cup in Florida — a competition for 16 of the world’s best sides in that age group in 2017. They qualified from a group that featured European giants Real Madrid, Roma and Borussia Dortmund, they beat Brazilian side Fluminense in the semifinal in a penalty shootout. And in the final they won 3-0 against U.S. side West Soccer Club, who had previously won all the matches in the competition.
The City Under 12s also include Jack and Tyler Fletcher, who are the twin sons of Stoke City and former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher.
He played youth football for Charlton before joining Villa, where he made nearly 200 appearances between 1999 and 2007. The club held a minute applause in remembrance of Samuel before their play-off semi-final against Middlesborough on Tuesday night.
Samuel was capped by England from Under-18 to Under-21 level and was an unused substitute for a senior international against Sweden in 2004. He would later make his debut under head coach Russell Latapy in a 2010 World Cup qualifier away to Honduras in San Pedro Sula.
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Minister Cudjoe Pays Tribute to Jlloyd Samuel
Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs
The Honourable Shamfa Cudjoe, Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs extends deepest condolences to the relatives and family of Jlloyd Samuel on his untimely passing today, (Tuesday May 15th). Samuel, a former Trinidadian professional footballer died when his Range Rover collided with an oncoming vehicle while returning to his Lymm, Cheshire, England home after dropping his kids off to school.
Samuel 37, originally from San Fernando was an ardent professional footballer who played as a defender and midfielder. He represented Trinidad and Tobago at the international level. Samuel played for England at youth level, in Under-18, Under-20 and Under-21 teams, pledging his international allegiance to his homeland, winning two caps. Samuel’s senior professional career started at Aston Villa where he spent nine years at the club, later moving on to Gillingham, Bolton Wanderers and Cardiff City. He also played for Iranian clubs Esteghlal and Paykan.
The Honourable Shamfa Cudjoe has joined with the nation and the world in mourning the passing of Jlloyd Samuel. Minister Cudjoe said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of Jlloyd’s death. The local and international football fraternity have lost a powerful figure in the sphere of football. His contributions to football would surely be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Emma and three children: Javarne, Lakyle and Amara. May his soul rest in peace”
The Honourable Minister Shamfa Cudjoe and the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs deeply regret the passing of this football icon. Once again we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family here in Trinidad and the UK.
Rest in Peace Jlloyd Samuel!