Fulham have announced the sad passing of their head of academy recruitment, Malcom Elias, following a short illness.

The Welshman was a key part of revolutionising Fulham’s academy – having moved to Motspur Park from Liverpool in 2009. Elias, who had previously worked with Huw Jennings and Steve Wigley in Southampton’s youth set-up bringing through the likes of Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana, Calum Chambers and James Ward-Prowse, played a key part in developing the likes of Harvey Elliott, Fabio Carvalho, Ryan Sessegnon, Luke Harris and Jay Stansfield and many, many more.

Elias, a highly renowned figure across the game, will be sorely missed by everyone connected with Fulham Football Club. He was a driven but respectful character, who understood acutely why the fans wanted to see homegrown players progressing into the first-team set-up. His legacy will be one of immense achievement – even if we are all saddened by his passing as Malcolm had so much more to give.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Malcolm’s family at this deeply sad time. We send our condolences and best wishes to his wife Paula, his sons Andrew and Daniel, his six grandchildren and everyone fortunate enough to have called him a friend.

Thank you for everything, Malcolm, and may you rest in peace.