Thompson's wife pays tribute to ex Man Utd starlet in emotional Instagram post

Joe Thompson's wife Chantelle has paid a heartbreaking tribute to the former footballer, who has died of cancer at the age of 36.

Thompson, who came through Man United's academy and spent much of his playing career at Rochdale, was diagnosed with cancer for the third time last year.

He had previously been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and recovered before the cancer returned four years later. He went on to recover a second time before calling time on his career in 2019.

Thompson's playing career included spells at Rochdale, Tranmere, Southport, Bury and Carlisle United, before he retired in 2019.

He became a regular pundit on MUTV following his retirement and held an ambassadorial role, along with working as a motivational speaker and life coach.

Thompson's wife Chantelle, the mother of their two children Thailula and Athena Rae, paid tribute to her husband in a message she 'thought I would never have to write'.

'Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounding by his family when he transitioned,' Chantelle wrote.

'Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds.

'He was the most Incredible husband, son, brother, friend & father to our beautiful daughters who will now carry his light and legacy on and I will continue to keep filling them up with Joes love every single day.

'It’s been a long battle, and one that he fought with all his might and he did things HIS way!! He choose his path and walked every step with courage and pride growing closer and closer to god each day whilst still being there for so many others. He held on to his plans for the future to continue that legacy but It’s now time for him to rest up and watch over us from heaven.

'I know he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy. Long may his legacy and impact live on!!'

Chantelle added that Thompson's funeral will be open, allowing people who have been impacted by him to attend.

Thompson's former clubs also paid tribute following confirmation of his passing on Friday.

'A man who epitomised our club's values,' Man United said in a tribute.

'We are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away.

'A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this difficult time.'

Having come through Man United's academy Thompson spent the majority of playing career at Rochdale, making 203 appearances across three different spells.

He was part of the Rochdale side which was promoted to League One in 2010.

Thompson achieved hero status at the club on the final day of the 2017/18 season, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory which ensured the club avoided relegation to League Two.

Rochdale wrote on social media that the club was 'devastated to learn of the passing of Dale legend, Joe Thompson', adding that he had passed away peacefully at home on Thursday with his family by his side.

'Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time. One of our own.

'We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.

'He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.

'Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.

'Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.'