Leeds United 'heartbroken' as fan death confirmed after medical emergency ahead of Man Utd game

Leeds United have confirmed the supporter who suffered a medical emergency before last month’s Premier League game against Manchester United has died.

Colin Westby, 68, was taken to hospital via ambulance after suffering the emergency around half an hour before kick-off at Elland Road on October 18. He’d remained in a critical condition since, with the club initially praising the ‘rapid action’ of stewards and medical staff on the day.

Leeds confirmed in a statement on Monday that after a period of unresponsiveness, the decision was taken to withdraw life support. Mr Westby had been attending matches at Elland Road for more than 50 years and will be remembered during Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur.

A club statement read: “Leeds United are heartbroken to learn of the passing of supporter Colin Westby at the age of 68. Colin suffered a medical emergency ahead of our Premier League fixture with Manchester United on Sunday 18 October at Elland Road.

“After being transferred to hospital, he was placed into a medically induced coma and sadly following a period of unresponsiveness, the decision was made to withdraw life support. Colin was a long-standing Season Ticket Holder at the club, attending matches for over 50 years.

“The thoughts of everyone at Leeds United are with Colin’s family and friends at this sad time. We will pay tribute to Colin in the 68th minute of our next Premier League fixture with Tottenham Hotspur, on Saturday 7 November.”