For Macclesfield FC, hosting Crystal Palace in the FA Cup third round is a dream come true. As the lowest-ranked team remaining in the competition, it is one of the biggest fixtures in the club’s recent history. Yet the occasion is tinged with deep sadness following the tragic death of forward Ethan McLeod.
McLeod, 21, passed away in a car accident on 16 December 2025 while returning from Macclesfield’s National League North match at Bedford Town. He had been an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory and had chosen to drive himself home to the Midlands.
“Nothing can prepare you for that,” said Macclesfield manager John Rooney. “I had to ring every player individually and tell them. I wanted to be the one to tell that news. It is the hardest thing I have ever done and will ever have to do.”
The team’s first match after McLeod’s death was postponed, but Macclesfield have since played three league games while grappling with grief.
Honouring Ethan McLeod
Ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup tie, a flag featuring McLeod’s photo hangs between the dugouts with the words “Forever a Silkman”, and a book of condolence is available in the club bar. The team has retired his number 20 shirt, and a JustGiving page to support his family has surpassed its £25,000 goal.
Rooney, who rejoined Macclesfield FC as manager in 2023, was one of McLeod’s first signings. He described the forward as:
“An absolute diamond of a kid – the life and soul of the changing room. Always had a smile on his face. It puts life into perspective. Seven days before, he scored a goal for us, and seven days later he’s not here anymore. The saddest thing I’ve ever been involved in.”
The Emotional Impact on the Squad
McLeod’s passing has deeply affected his teammates. Forward Danny Elliott described McLeod as “different” and “selfless,” noting both his footballing talent and personal qualities.
“He was strong, athletic and scored a few really good goals. Everyone was buzzing for him. More importantly, he was fantastic as a person – gentle, caring, and funny. All the boys warmed to him. He was a special person to have around.”
The squad has leaned on their faith to cope with the tragedy. Elliott leads pre-game Bible study and prayers, and after McLeod’s death, the team gathered at the stadium for a group prayer.
“It is such a strange situation because you can’t just stop. Football has to go on, but Ethan won’t ever be forgotten,” Elliott said. “We’ll be enjoying every second of Saturday’s game and taking it all in.”
FA Cup Third Round: Macclesfield vs Crystal Palace
Macclesfield’s FA Cup third-round match against Crystal Palace will take place on Saturday, 10 January 2026, at 12:15 GMT, broadcast on BBC One, iPlayer, and BBC Radio 5 Live. The match is a historic opportunity for the reformed club, which restarted in 2020 after the original Macclesfield Town was wound up in the High Court.
Despite the sadness, Rooney and his squad are determined to honour McLeod on the pitch.
“The passing of Ethan was shocking and surprising. It will continue to affect players for a long time, but it has brought the group closer together,” Elliott said. “There are bigger things in life than football. Saturday reminds us there’s no guarantee of anything. We’ll give our all and try to create a memory for him.”
Legacy and Memory
McLeod scored three goals in seven appearances for Macclesfield and had battled injuries during his career. His impact on and off the pitch, however, will be remembered by teammates, staff, and supporters alike.
The FA Cup fixture against Crystal Palace is not just about football—it’s about celebrating Ethan McLeod’s life while embracing one of the most significant days in Macclesfield FC’s history.
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