Ex-Birmingham City defender Sam Oji dies aged 35

Messages of condlence started circulating on social media on Friday morning but the club where he was player-assisant manager, City's league rivals Highgate United, revealed on Friday night that he was still fighting for his life and asked for his family's privacy to be respected. 

The club confirmed this morning that he had died. 

All it is with a very heavy heart that I am deeply saddened to inform you, that our beloved Captain, Leader and Legend Samuel Oji has sadly passed away. The thoughts of all at Highgate United FC are with Sam’s wife, children and family at this very sad time.

RIP Oji 💔💔💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/tayyp5M1vb

— Highgate United FC (@HighgateUnited) August 28, 2021

The former Arsenal academy prospect played in the Football League for Doncaster Rovers, Bristol Rovers, Leyton Orient and Hereford United.

After three seasons in Ireland playing for Limerick and Galway United, Oji returned to England to sign for City in the summer of 2016. He left when City dropped down from National North to the Midland Football League a year later.

After spending time as a player with City’s league rivals Highgate United, Oji was appointed as assistant manager to new boss Simon Johnson this summer.

It is understood Oji passed away following a short illness that was not related to Covid. 

Worcester City captain and player-coach Craig Jones was among those to pay tribute. 

Absolute sickener, so sorry to hear. Thoughts with your family, close friends and loved ones. Rest in paradise 💙❤️

— Craig Jones (@Jonah_238) August 28, 2021

We are very sorry to learn of the passing of former player @SamuelOji_24

Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends and all that knew this lovely man.

RIP Sam ⚽️ https://t.co/XbOqHK13xy

— Worcester City FC (@WorcesterCityFc) August 28, 2021

God rest his soul . Beautiful man inside and out ❤💛

— Ian Rowe (@rowey2017) August 28, 2021

A great player for Worcester City. I remember the fans singing “Ain’t nobody like Sam OJI” to the tune of the old Chaka Khan hit from the seventies. There was no one like him and he was one of the very best players I have seen at Worcester. RIP Sam.

— Stephen Pepper (@Pepper2Pepsi) August 28, 2021

So sad - far to young - lovely man- thoughts with his family and friends at this sad time RIP

— Tom Ross (@thegoalzone) August 28, 2021

This is so very sad. Thoughts and condolences from all at @MalvernTown1946 to family friends and team-mates 😢

— Philip Earl (@Philearlsurgeon) August 28, 2021