Macclesfield forward Ethan McLeod has died in a car accident on the M1 motorway while travelling back from a game on Tuesday. McLeod, 21, was returning from his team's National League North match at Bedford Town in which he had been a substitute.

The accident occurred at around 22:40 GMT near Northampton when his white Mercedes collided with a barrier. Macclesfield described McLeod as "incredibly talented" and a "well-respected member" of their squad. In a statement, the club said, "News of Ethan's passing has devastated our entire club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now."

McLeod first joined Wolverhampton Wanderers' academy at the age of seven. He eventually played for the club's under-21s in the EFL Trophy but never made an appearance for the first team. The Birmingham-born player, known for his pace, had a loan spell with Alvechurch in the Southern League, before he had short periods with Rushall Olympic and Stourbridge after leaving Molineux. He arrived at Macclesfield in July after a successful trial.

McLeod played five times for the Silkmen, most recently on 10 December, where he scored his second goal for them in a 1-1 draw with Kings Lynn Town. Macclesfield described McLeod as having a "lust for life" and an "unwavering work ethic", which was an inspiration to those around him.

While referring to his "unique smile", the club offered their condolences to the player's family and friends. "The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan's passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan's vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future," the club added.

Macclesfield's next league fixture is scheduled to be at Alfreton Town on Saturday, although the club has not yet said if the game will go ahead. Wolves, where McLeod's younger brother Conor, 20, plays for the U21 team, said they were "heartbroken" by the tragic passing of their former player. The Premier League club said they will "provide care and support to Conor and his family" after the loss of his brother.

A minute's silence will be held before Saturday's home game against Brentford in honour of the late forward. McLeod competed in season one of Baller League for VZN FC and they said that they were "devastated" upon hearing the news. "We send our love and condolences to his family, friends and team-mates at this heartbreaking time," they added.