The Grays Athletic left midfielder enjoyed an all-too-short career having also starred for Chesham United, Crawley Town, Oldham Athletic, Rochdale and Boston United.

Whether playing in the Dr Martens Premier or League One, Cooksey achieved cult status amongst supporters for an unrelenting spirit, determination and humour, celebrating every goal like it was a late winner in an FA Cup Final, and playing the game with an infectious spirit that surpassed and suppressed any egos that were on show. (He also looked like an old veteran despite his youthful years, much to the initial shock of supporters expecting some bright young starlet!)

I was lucky enough to see Ernie in full flow in a Crawley shirt before he got the dream call into league football at Oldham in 2003, and in these days of TV deals, agents, six-figure weekly pay cheques and Garth Crooks, it's important to remember those players who make a real and genuine contribution to our game.

28 is no age for a man to pass away, and he leaves behind his pregnant girlfriend. Sometimes there is no justice.

But the legacy left behind by footballers like Ernie and others whose time has been called all too soon, epitomises the true spirit of the game of football, and the real reason that we return week after week; to say thanks to guys like these.

RIP Ernie Cooksey.

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