Doug Loft dead aged 39: Former Port Vale captain dies following 'medical emergency' as clubs pay tribute to midfielder

Loft's former sides have paid tribute to the midfielder, who is survived by his wife Laura and their two children, Freya and Amelie. Port Vale, who Loft played for between 2009 and 2014 and captained for two years, posted on X: 'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former captain, Doug Loft, who passed away at the age of 39 following a medical emergency. Upon leaving the club, Loft moved back to his home county of Kent to join Gillingham, where he was immediately appointed captain.