Tragedy as ex-EPL star Gabby Agbonlahor's brave niece dies aged 11

FORMER Aston Villa star Gabby Agbonlahor has revealed his 11-year-old niece has died.

Jayla Agbonlahor passed away yesterday after living with a degenerative brain disorder.

Jayla, from Sutton Coldfield had been unable to walk or talk and was fed through her stomach by a tube.

Her family had fought for her seizures to treated with cannabis oil.

Doctors had previously told them that she would not live past the age of four.

Striker Gabby broke the news of her death to his fans on Instagram today.

He wrote: “Rest in heaven now my beautiful niece princess Jayla.

“You have suffered enough in this cruel world!

“I love you and so many people will always love you!

“Watching you take your last breaths today has broken me. We will see you soon.”

Speaking to BirminghamLive in 2017, her mum Louise said: "When Jayla was born there was nothing wrong with her.

"But then, days after her first birthday, she stopped breathing and kept going blue.

"She was rushed to hospital where she remained for five months.

“At first they thought it was epilepsy. But eventually they couldn't diagnose her and I was told that she wasn't expected to survive."

Meanwhile post from Jayla's Wish on Twitter read: "Jayla Loren you are the most beautiful and strong princess I have ever known fly high beautiful."

Fans and friends rushed to the comments to pay tribute to the little girl.

One wrote: "Sadly princess warrior Jayla passed away not long ago. She has been through so much over the years and continued to smile and be happy and that was not only because of her bravery and courageous and strength but also because of the love and positivity and strength of her family to.

"It was an honour to know you Jayla and you will never be forgotten."

Another added: "Sadly princess warrior Jayla passed away not long ago.

"She has been through so much over the years and continued to smile and be happy and that was not only because of her bravery and courageous and strength but also because of the love and positivity and strength of her family to.

"It was an honour to know you Jayla and you will never be forgotten."