Dozens of tributes have been paid to James McCourt following his tragic death earlier this month. The popular amatuer footballer has been remembered as an ‘outstanding man’.

Tributes have been paid to the former captain of a Glasgow football team who passed away suddenly.

James ‘Coogie’ McCourt tragically died last weekend leaving friends and family devastated. He played for Glasgow-based amateur side Unity FC which promotes recovery from alcohol and drug issues and challenging stigma.

The team has remembered James as an ‘outstanding man’ in a touching tribute. They said: “We are all devastated by the loss of an outstanding man.

“Unity is not just a team, about one game or even a season. Unity is forever. If you wear that shirt or even are part of the group you know what it means. It means a common ground, a belonging, being part of something shared. It means standing shoulder to shoulder with people who have walked in your shoes. It means no matter what, you have kinship, you have each other, you have Unity. James signed for Unity on 18th September 2017. He was often our captain, always our teammate, forever our friend. We will never forget him. James was Unity!”

Glasgow & District Sunday Football Championship, the league the team compete in, said: “It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of Unity AFC captain James McCourt.

“League Committee and members pass on our thoughts and condolences to James’ family and teammates at this difficult time

“Rest in Peace James.”

Friends and loved ones have paid tribute to James, describing him as an “all round genuine guy.”

One friend wrote: “R.I.P Coogie, More than a teammate, More than a friend, will miss you dearly big man.”

Another added: “James “Coogie” McCourt was a massive part of and had a big influence in loads of people’s lives. Our team mate and captain, our friend, our brother and an all round genuine good guy

“The past few days have really shown how many people loved James and how well thought of he was

“His untimely passing has left an empty space in a lot of lives, none more so than his family. I can’t begin to imagine the impact this has had on them

“No amount of money or things could ever take away the pain and loss! However, hopefully we can come together and raise a little bit to help James’s family through this awful time. Rest easy James.

“You will be missed more than you could ever know. The Unity F.C family and Sundays will never be the same without you.”

Another posted: “An absolute gentleman. One of the good guys gone far too soon.”

James’ dad, John McCourt said: “My heart is broken…I am so so proud to say James McCourt was my son.”

Friend Brian McFall has set up a fundraising page to help his family with plans to hold a memorial football match and fundraising night. Donations can be made here.

Unity FC are also raising money for James’s family, which can be found here.