TRIBUTES have been paid to Simon Patterson, a former Watford FC Academy player who was killed in a road accident on Sunday.

Simon, who celebrated his 24th birthday on Monday, September 4, was at Watford from 2001 to 2004.

In a statement, Watford FC said: "We were very sad to learn of the death of former Academy player Simon Patterson over the weekend. Simon was a very popular figure around the club.

"As well as representing the club with distinction, he also played for Wycombe Wanderers on loan. The club wishes to pass on its condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time." On loan at Wycombe, Simon played in the opening five games of the 2003/4 season, scoring twice including a goal seconds after coming on as a substitute at home to Chesterfield.

Simon, who was born in Northwick, also played non-league football for Slough Town, Beaconsfield, Wingate & Finchley and Havant & Waterlooville.

A statement on the Wycombe Wanderers website said: "It is with sadness that the club has been informed that ex-Wanderers loan striker Simon Patterson was killed in a road accident on Sunday night. The club would like to pass on our condolences to Simon's friends and family after learning the tragic news."

During his three years at Vicarage Road, 6ft 5inches-tall Simon was blighted by injury and failed to make it into the first team, unlike fellow players from his Academy year Lloyd Doyley and Richard Lee.

David Dodds, Watford FC Academy manager said: "Simon was a great lad. He was liked by everyone. He was a respectful lad as well. All the staff used to think he was a decent lad. He was a good footballer as well but unfortunately he hurt his knee which kept him back."