Creggan’s James McClean changed his Twitter profile picture to one of him and Mark Farren as a mark of respect to his former Derry City team mate who sadly passed away
A book of condolence is to be opened for Derry City striker Mark Farren.
And Derry City is to retire his famous number 18 shirt as a mark of respect to its former hot shot striker.
The Donegal man had been receiving treatment for an aggressive brain tumour.
Mark sadly passed away on Wednesday morning.
He played for City from 2003 to 2012, scoring 113 goals in 209 appearances for the club, making it a club record.
His father-in-law, Shaun Holmes said today: “He was an absolute gentleman who was football crazy.
“He was a fighter but it was devastating for the family to watch.
“He was very much in love with my sister Terri-Louise. She is devastated. Nothing prepares you for this. They were best friends.
“Mark and Terri-Louise previously lost triplets. It was a tough journey for them.
“He would love to be remembered as a loving husband, a gentleman and a goal scorer.”
Friends, footballers and politicians have been paying tribute to Farren.
They include West Bromwich Albion and Republic of Ireland winger James McClean, who played alongside him for Derry.
He posted on his Twitter feed: “Gutted to hear news of the death of my former team mate mark farren, great player, even better man.
“Prayers are with his family. RIP Buddy.”
As a mark of his respect, Creggan lad James has changed his Twitter profile picture to one of him and Mark in their Derry City playing days.
Mark’s death has deeply touched the footballing world.
Former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker, now host of the BBC’s Match of the Day also paid his respects.
He posted a simple message for Mark: “RIP”.
Farren was in the Derry teams that won the FAI Cup in 2006 and 2012, and was voted player of the year by the Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland in 2005.
He left Derry to join Irish League club Glenavon in 2013 but was forced to quit the game because of his illness.
Mark’s funeral takes place tomorrow, Friday, February 5, in Donegal.
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