Paul Holmes, a former defender for Doncaster Rovers, passed away at the age of 56.
Tributes to Holmes, who was diagnosed with cancer, have been flooding social media. Before departing in 1988, the Yorkshireman started his professional career with Doncaster.

After joining Torquay United, he played for the team for more than a century before having stints with Everton and Birmingham City. After a three-year stint with West Bromwich Albion, the Baggies are one of the teams that have released a memorial.

“West Bromwich Albion are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player Paul Holmes, aged 56,” the club said in a statement. The defender appeared in more than 100 games for the team between 1996 and 1999.

Before having stints with Torquay, Birmingham City, and Everton—whom he left to join the Baggies—he excelled with Doncaster Rovers. After leaving The Hawthorns, Holmes completed his professional career in Devon.

Before the game against Southampton on Sunday kicks off, the team will honor Paul. As a sign of respect, the players will also don black armbands. At this very sad time, everyone at Albion expresses their sincere condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.

Ian Snodin, Holmes’ former Everton teammate, expressed shock at the news of Holmes’ passing, saying, “I knew Paul was unwell.” In addition to being a great player, he was a pleasure to have in the changing room. He was friendly with all the boys and regretted not being able to play more games.

After making his way back to Torquay in 1999, Holmes finished his playing career in 2003 at Plainmoor.