Former West Ham Academy prospect Mitchell Cole has passed away at the age of just 27.
The midfielder, who was released by the club in 2004 was forced to retire from football last year having discovered that he suffered from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - the same heart condition that forced Fabrice Muamba to retire - died earlier today.Only last year Cole - who detected the problem during a routine heart scan whilst still at West Ham - gave an interview to a tabloid in which he explained why he had to retire from the game.
"They said in 2003 exercise could bring on my condition but I wasn’t going to end my career on a maybe," he said. "I have three FA Trophy winner’s medals, a Conference South title, Conference title and a League One title with Southend. I am happy with what I’ve achieved; some players don’t win anything."
KUMB's condolences go to Mitchell's family and friends at this difficult time.
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