TRIBUTES have poured in following the sudden death of a well-known and popular Greenock dad and former top junior footballer.

Ryan Macdonald's sudden passing has left his family, his many friends and former team-mates devastated.

The dad-of-two died last Friday at the age of just 41.

Ryan was well-known in the area as a hugely talented footballer who later went on to serve as a dedicated youth team coach.

He played for both Greenock and Port Glasgow as well as Arthurlie, Petershill, Neilston and Johnstone Burgh.

Port Juniors led the tributes, saying they learned of Ryan's passing with an 'immeasurable amount of sorrow'.

The Port said: "Everyone at the club is devastated by the news of Ryan’s passing.

"Ryan had a fantastic football career spanning 16 years, starting off at Greenock Juniors, Arthurlie FC, Petershill FC, Neilston Juniors FC, Johnstone Burgh FC, Greenock Juniors and Port Glasgow Juniors, where he finished his career.

"Ryan was the ultimate professional both on and off the park, always encouraging and supporting the new players who had just arrived at the club.

"His wealth of knowledge for junior football was second to none and Ryan’s career could have reached the very top of professional football if he had chosen to do so."

Club officials said Ryan was also a popular coach who got on well with all the youngsters he trained.

They said: "After his playing career came to an end, Ryan’s love of football took him to coaching the younger kids, with Ryan taking on a role of coaching the Port Glasgow Boys' Club 2013 group.

"He was an instant hit with the lads, who all enjoyed the passion and the love he showed for the game.

"Ryan was a loving husband, father, brother, son, uncle and a great friend to many who are still trying to come to terms with his passing.

"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are at this time with Ryan’s wife Lynne, Ryan’s two young children Eilidh and Callan and all of Ryan’s family."

Ryan's brother Ross has thanked the club for paying their respects.

He posted on the club's Facebook page: "Thanks for a very touching tribute to my big brother.

"Also thank-you for the family flowers, very much appreciated at a difficult time.

"Ryan followed in the footsteps of our dad 'big Jada' by playing for Greenock and The Port.

"I know he thoroughly enjoyed his time at the club."

Scores of poignant tributes have been left online by friends and former team-mates.

Kevin Whitters said: "A truly special person.

"Always made people feel better just being in his presence.

"A massive loss to so many.

"Thoughts and prayers to all his family."

Christopher Morrison wrote: "Absolute diamond of a guy, it is so sad, my thoughts are with the family."

Richard Barrell posted: "You will be missed by all big man.

"Great tribute from Port Glasgow Juniors.

"My condolences to all the family at this very sad and heart-breaking time."

Ryan's family said he was much-loved by everyone who knew him.

They also thanked everyone for their support at this traumatic time.

They told the Telegraph: "We are devastated at Ryan's sudden death, he absolutely adored his wife, two children and family.

"He was a wonderful husband and dad.

"He was deeply loved by his family and treasured by all who knew him.

"We are grateful for all of the messages of help and support which are getting the family through an incredibly difficult time."

Greenock Juniors have also paid a touching tribute to their former striker.

A club statement said: "Everyone at Greenock Juniors is shocked to hear of the sudden passing of Ryan McDonald.

"Those who knew him would agree he was a fine player, but even better person."

Team-mates from a whole host of other clubs also posted their condolences.

Former Neilston Juniors manager Andy Whiteford said: "Thoughts are with all Ryan’s family at this sad time.

"A great team-mate, friend and an absolute gentleman.

"I’ll always remember the laughs we had together."

Gerry Joyce added: "Devastated hearing the news.

"Can't even put it in to words how much Ryan was thought of.

"He will missed by many. "

Johnstone Burgh FC said: "Our sincere condolences go out to Ryan's family and loved ones at this very difficult time.

"Our abiding memory of Ryan is he always played this beautiful game with a smile on his face and he will be a great loss to us all."