Former Middlesbrough academy footballer Anthony Renton has died at the age of 27 after a long battle with leukaemia, the club confirmed in a statement.
Renton, a defender who came through the club’s youth system, passed away peacefully following almost nine years living with the illness.
He had originally signed professional terms with Middlesbrough before his diagnosis in 2017.
The Championship club paid tribute to their former player, describing him as an “inspirational character” who continued to contribute to football despite his health challenges.
Club tribute highlights long battle
In its statement, Middlesbrough said: “We are desperately saddened to report the passing of our former academy player Anthony Renton.”
The club added that he “bravely battled leukaemia for almost nine years – and never let it diminish his love of our game.”
Renton was diagnosed in July 2017 at the age of 18, shortly after signing his first professional contract. Despite the setback, he remained closely involved in football and later moved into coaching.
Middlesbrough noted that he “continued to be a beacon of positivity” and worked with young players in their academy setup during his later years.
His contribution to youth development was formally recognised when he received the club’s Academy Alumni Award in March 2026.
Lasting impact beyond playing career
Beyond his time at Middlesbrough, Renton also supported grassroots football, including coaching roles at South Park Rangers, where he helped guide young players in their development.
The club said his “dedication to supporting young footballers in their development both on and off the pitch will always be remembered.”
Middlesbrough players previously showed solidarity after his diagnosis in 2017 by wearing shirts bearing his name during pre-season warm-up matches.
His passing has prompted tributes across the club’s community, with supporters and former teammates remembering both his early promise as a defender and his resilience during years of illness.