Today, West Ham and the world were greeted with the tragic news, that young West Ham and Australian striker, Dylan Tombides had lost his battle with testicular cancer. The 20-year-old who had suffered with testicular cancer for three years, made his first team debut with the Hammers two years ago, and represented his national side at youth ages.
The youngster, who passed away on Friday with his family by his bedside, was regarded as one of Australia's brightest prospect after signing for the Irons at 14. West Ham announced today in a club statement.
'West Ham United announce the sad news that forward Dylan Tombides has passed away at the age of 20 following his brave battle with cancer,' the club statement read.
'Dylan passed away on Friday morning with his family by his side having courageously fought the disease for three years after initially being diagnosed with testicular cancer in summer 2011.'
West Ham added in the club statement: 'Dylan's amazing resilience and positivity saw him through months of surgery and chemotherapy, while his outstanding talent saw him make his first-team debut in a League Cup tie with Wigan Athletic at the Boleyn Ground in September 2012.
'Away from the pitch, Dylan did a huge amount of work to raise awareness of male cancer, supporting the One for the Boys campaign at a number of high-profile events alongside the likes of Hollywood star Samuel L Jackson, snooker star Jimmy White and fellow Australian Peter Andre.
'Dylan was respected by everyone who knew him for his intelligent views on the game and his larger than life character. He was a loving son, amazing brother and well-respected member of the West Ham squad. He will be hugely missed by everyone who had the honour of knowing him.
'His passing will be marked by a minute's applause ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League fixture with Crystal Palace at the Boleyn Ground. The Hammers' players will also wear black armbands in his memory.
'The thoughts of everyone associated with the club are with his parents Tracylee and Jim, brother Taylor, his family and friends at this sad time.'
On behalf of everyone at Vavel, I'd like to pass on our condolence to the Tombides family, during this very difficult stage