Crewe Alexandra has confirmed Recruitment Analyst, Mert Tumoz, has passed away suddenly at the age of 33, with a fundraiser launched to support the father-of-two's young family.

The respected colleague and devoted father-of-two of daughter Neda (aged six), and son Ali, (aged three), died on Thursday 27 November, following a sudden illness on his birthday.

Alex players will wear black armbands against Newport County on Wednesday 10 December, along with a minute's applause before kick-off, with club staff supporting Mert's family.

Mert first joined Crewe Alexandra as a volunteer scout in September 2023, quickly impressing staff with his dedication, football knowledge and professionalism.

Devoted father-of-two, Mert Tumoz died on Thursday 27 November, following a sudden illness on his birthday (Photo: Ryan Parker).

His commitment earned him a full-time role within the club's recruitment department, where he became an influential figure in both senior and academy player identification.

Mert had fulfilled his lifelong ambition of building a career in football. In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support his young family.

Crewe Alexandra said: "It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Recruitment Analyst Mert Tumoz.

"A respected and valued colleague, the father-of two died after a sudden illness on November 27.

"Mert joined the club as a volunteer scout in September 2023 and quickly earned a full-time role, which saw him play an influential part in the player recruitment process at senior and academy levels.

"Crewe Alexandra are in touch with Mert's family and providing support.

"As a mark of respect, players will wear black armbands during the game against Newport County on December 10, and there will be a minute's applause before kick-off.

Crewe Alex players will wear black armbands against Newport County on Wednesday 10 December, along with a minute's applause before kick-off (Photo: Ryan Parker).

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Mert's partner Şule, daughter Neda [6], son Ali [3], and his friends and family at this devastating time."

At the time of publication, the GoFundMe fundraiser has reached £3,002, with donations continuing to come in from supporters, colleagues and members of the wider football community.

Manager, Lee Bell said: "It is devastating to lose Mert. Shattering.

"There were no signs, so was a complete shock. The day he passed away was his birthday. It has been a very tough few days for everybody connected to the Club.

"Mert was a smashing fella, and he absolutely loved this Club. He fell in love with Crewe and moved his family to the town.

"He had worked his way into professional football and was so eager to help improve the Club. He went above and beyond every day.

"Mert leaves a very young family. Nothing will undo what has happened, but it's important that we show the type of club that we are.

Crewe Nub News offers its deepest condolences to Mert's partner Şule, their children Neda and Ali, and all who knew him (Photo: Ryan Parker).

"It Is our responsibility as a collective to make sure we're supporting them.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to his two little children and his wife."

Crewe Nub News offers its deepest condolences to Mert's partner Şule, their children Neda and Ali, and all who knew him.

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