DOUG LOFT has tragically died aged just 39.
Port Vale led the tributes to their former captain, who played nearly 200 times for them between 2009 and 2014.
The League Two side confirmed on X that Loft had died over the weekend following a “medical emergency”.
Loft is survived by wife Laura and their two children Freya and Amelie.
An excerpt of Vale’s tribute read: “He will be remembered fondly by everyone at the club, not only for his achievements on the pitch but for the commitment and leadership he showed throughout his time in Burslem.
“The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Port Vale are with Doug’s family, friends, former team-mates and all those who knew him, at this incredibly sad time.
“With the blessing of Doug’s family, we have requested permission from the EFL for our players to wear black armbands and to hold a minute’s silence ahead of kick off ahead of this weekend’s game against Chesterfield.”
Speaking to the BBC, Loft’s former Vale manager Micky Adams said: “There was nobody more proud to be captain of the Vale.”
Loft also played for Brighton, Dagenham, Gillingham, Colchester and Shrewsbury during his professional career.
He later dropped into non-league with Billericay, Margate and Tonbridge Angels before retiring in 2023.
Loft played 49 times for Brighton before moving to Port Vale in 2009.
The Seagulls wrote on social media: “Everyone at the Albion is devastated to hear the news of Doug Loft’s sudden passing at the age of 39. Doug played 42 times for the club & will always be fondly remembered by fans & staff alike.
“Our thoughts are with Doug’s family & friends at this difficult time.”
After leaving Brighton, Loft excelled at Port Vale, earning their Player of the Year award in 2011-12 and helping them to promotion from League Two in the following campaign.
Loft left Vale for Gillingham in 2014 and also went on to skipper the Kent club.
The Gills wrote in their heartfelt own tribute: “The Football Club is absolutely devastated to announce the death of former Gills Captain, Doug Loft.
“Doug died suddenly following a medical emergency over the weekend. He was 39.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Doug’s wife Laura, their children Freya and Amelie, along with his friends and family at this very difficult time.”
Tonbridge Angels added: “Everyone at Tonbridge Angels is devastated by the heartbreaking news of Doug Loft’s death.
“He was a true professional, a talented player and a wonderful person.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Laura, his children and all his family and friends at this truly dreadful time.”
And an excerpt of Billericay’s tribute read: “All of us from Billericay Town FC would like to send our prayers, sincere condolences and sympathy to Doug’s family and friends at this very difficult time. RIP Doug.”
Dagenham posted on social media: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dagger Doug Loft.
“Our thoughts are with Doug’s family, friends and all who knew him during this difficult time.
“Rest in peace, Doug”.
Port Vale's Doug Loft tribute in full
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Vale captain, Doug Loft, at the age of 39.
Loft joined the Valiants in the summer of 2009 from Brighton & Hove Albion and went on to become hugely popular during his five seasons with the club.
A hard-working and versatile midfielder, he quickly became a key member of the squad, earning the respect of supporters through his commitment and determination in a Vale shirt.
His contribution during the 2011/12 campaign saw him named our Player of the Season, and he was later named club captain ahead of the following season.
He would go on to play an important role for the club, wearing the armband as we secured promotion from League Two in 2012/13 season under Micky Adams.
Loft’s leadership, passion and dedication to the badge helped establish him as a firm favourite, and his contribution to that promotion-winning side will forever remain part of the club’s history.
After leaving Vale Park in 2014, Doug continued his playing career with Gillingham, Colchester United and Shrewsbury Town respectively, among other clubs.
He will be remembered fondly by everyone at the club, not only for his achievements on the pitch but for the commitment and leadership he showed throughout his time in Burslem.
The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Port Vale are with Doug’s family, friends, former team-mates and all those who knew him, at this incredibly sad time.
With the blessing of Doug’s family, we have requested permission from the EFL for our players to wear black armbands and to hold a minute’s silence ahead of kick off ahead of this weekend’s game against Chesterfield.
Rest in peace, Doug.