Father’s tribute to former St Johnstone youth player Darren Wilcox

A devastated father has paid tribute to his “football daft” son.

Former St Johnstone youth player Darren Wilcox, from Perth, sadly lost a two-year fight against cancer on Friday, aged just 21.

He has been described as a “popular wee guy” who would be greatly missed by his friends and family.

His father Jim revealed that they had been optimistic Darren would beat the disease, but after developing an infection he was unable to continue his battle.

“We actually thought that, because of the fight he had in him, he was going to be okay,” he said.

“About two weeks ago, however, he knew he wasn’t going to make it and he got the whole family together so we could say our goodbyes.”

Jim added that: “Football was his life and his passion.”

For a full tribute to Darren, see Tuesday’s Courier.