Shock at news of death of ex-Motherwell defender Christian Mbulu aged 23

Christian Mbulu is pictured with his Scottish Challenge Cup Player of the Round award for his goalscoring display in a 2-0 third round success over Irish outfit Sligo Rovers in October 2018. | other

There is shock at the death of former Motherwell FC defender Christian Mbulu, who was found dead at home on Tuesday at the age of 23.

Mbulu, whose death is not being treated as suspicious, spent the 2018-19 campaign at Fir Park after being freed by Millwall.

In October 2018, the centre back was named as Player of the Round for the third round of the Scottish Challenge Cup after scoring to help Motherwell's under-21 side to a 2–0 home win against League of Ireland club Sligo Rovers.

Mbulu was released by 'Well in summer 2019 and joined Crewe Alexandra until January 2020 before joining Morecambe on a deal until the end of the season.

Motherwell FC chairman Jim McMahon told the club website: “We are shocked to hear of the news of Christian’s death.

“He was such a friendly, pleasant and dedicated young man who we loved having around Fir Park.

“Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. We hope their privacy is respected by everyone as they try to come to terms with their loss.”