Key Highlights
- Macclesfield FC faces Crystal Palace in a significant third-round FA Cup match.
- Ethan McLeod, a forward for Macclesfield, tragically died in a car accident on December 16, 2025.
- The team has played three matches since the accident and now prepares to honor their fallen teammate.
- Manager John Rooney and players emphasize the importance of remembering McLeod while focusing on football.
The FA Cup Match: A Ticking Clock for Macclesfield FC
Macclesfield Football Club faces a historic challenge as they prepare to host Crystal Palace in the third round of the FA Cup. This match is not just any ordinary game; it marks one of the biggest days in the club’s recent history, a stage where the memory of their fallen teammate, Ethan McLeod, will be forever honored.
Tragedy Strikes
The story began on December 16, 2025, when Macclesfield’s forward, Ethan McLeod, was involved in a fatal car accident while traveling home after a victorious match. The tragedy struck just as the club was celebrating a hard-fought victory against Bedford Town with a 2-1 scoreline.
The young player had opted to drive himself back to the Midlands despite the rest of his squad being delayed due to gridlocked traffic on the M1 motorway. His death came as a shock, leaving the team and club community in mourning. The news was confirmed by manager John Rooney, who took the responsibility of informing each player individually.
Resilience Through Football
In just 25 days since McLeod’s passing, Macclesfield has managed to play three league matches, showing remarkable resilience and dedication to their sport. The club has retired his number 20 shirt in tribute, a symbol of the special bond they share with the late player.
Manager John Rooney, who joined the team as a scholar and later returned as manager in 2023, shared his thoughts on the situation: “Nothing can prepare you for that. When you have to ring every player individually and tell them, I can’t explain what it felt like.” The impact of such an event is profound, especially for those directly involved.
Memorializing Ethan McLeod
The club has also set up a book of condolence in the bar, alongside a flag with McLeod’s photo hanging between the dugouts. This tribute serves as both a reminder and a celebration of his life and legacy. Danny Elliott, one of Macclesfield FC’s forwards who played under Rooney, expressed his feelings: “He was an incredibly talented footballer.
More importantly, as a person he was fantastic. He was gentle, really caring, and took a lot of time for everybody.”
McLeod’s story is not just about the player but also about the community that came together in support. A JustGiving page to help support his family has surpassed the £25,000 target, highlighting the generosity and unity within the club.
A Game of Football, A Life Remembered
As Macclesfield prepares for their FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 12:15 GMT, the match holds immense significance. Manager John Rooney and his team are focused on the game but also on honoring McLeod’s memory.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Rooney said, “It puts life into perspective. Seven days before, he scored a goal for us, and seven days later he’s not here anymore.
It’s the saddest thing I’ve ever been involved in.” The team will play for their fallen teammate, carrying his legacy with them every step of the way.
The match serves as more than just a game; it is a celebration of McLeod’s life and a reminder to cherish each moment. As Danny Elliott put it, “You would think he had 15 years of FA Cup runs left, but life has strange ways of not being what you think it might be.” The club will enjoy every second of the match, dedicated to their departed friend.
Macclesfield FC’s journey in the FA Cup is a testament to the resilience and spirit of football. As they face Crystal Palace on Saturday, the club will honor Ethan McLeod’s memory while continuing to pursue their dreams on the pitch.
