Michael Newberry (30 December 1997 – 30 December 2024) was an English professional footballer who played as a defender. He began his career at Newcastle United, before spells in Iceland with Víkingur Ólafsvík and in Northern Ireland with Linfield and Cliftonville.[1][2] Born in England, he represented Northern Ireland internationally at youth level. He could operate as a centre-back or full-back.[3]
Early life
Newberry grew up in Newcastle upon Tyne, England but had familial background from Northern Ireland.[4]
Career
Newberry joined the youth academy of English side Newcastle United at the age of 11,[5] from the Gosforth based club, Red House Farm JFC.[6] He was regarded as a prospect while playing for the club but never made an appearance for their first team.[7][8] This was attributed to the fact he had hairline fractures in his spine that led to eight months out after the injury recurred during rehabilitation.[9] In 2018, he went on loan to Iceland's Víkingur Ólafsvík before making the move permanent.[8] He played in 65 first time matches for them.[10] In 2021, Newberry joined the Northern Irish club Linfield.[11] During his time with Linfield, he won two NIFL Premierships and one Irish Cup.[12] In 2024, he moved to Cliftonville.[13]
International career
Newberry represented Northern Ireland internationally at youth level due to his family connections.[9][14]
Death
After having played in the Boxing Day North Belfast derby against Crusaders,[15] Newberry died suddenly on the 30th December 2024 which was his 27th birthday.[16][17][18][13][19] Cliftonville and Linfield's scheduled matches that day were postponed as a mark of respect.[20] Other matches in the NIFL Premiership held a minutes silence before kick-off.[21]
Career statistics
Club
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[22]