The wife of a former Kent footballer has been left “completely numb” after he collapsed and died shortly after a match, aged 35.

Alfie Nunn - described as talented and charismatic by loved ones - went into cardiac arrest, and desperate attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

The fan favourite, who enjoyed spells with both Canterbury and Whitstable Town, had moved to Dubai to work as an estate agent.

He had just played a game for Dubai Dragons FC when tragedy struck in the changing rooms on Thursday night.

The club said: “Several players rushed to his assistance and carried out CPR.

“Alfie was taken to a nearby hospital, where unfortunately they were not able to resuscitate him and he passed.”

Alfie’s death has left his wife, Becky, “beyond heartbroken”.

She said: “I am completely numb and shocked to my very core that this has happened.

“Not only have I lost Alf as the amazing person that he was, but have also lost the rest of my life ahead as planned with him, including our wedding celebrations in July and starting our own family.

“He has left such a massive hole that will never be filled and I am beyond heartbroken.”

Alfie led the line for both Canterbury City and Whitstable Town as a striker.

A minute’s silence was held before City’s game against Fisher FC on Saturday.

Describing Alfie as a “fan favourite”, a spokesman for City said: “Everybody at the club wishes to send their thoughts and condolences to Alfie’s family at this sad time.

“Fly high, young man.”

Alfie had moved to the United Arab Emirates a number of years ago to work for Dubai property firm Haus & Haus. His funeral will be held in the UK.

An online appeal has been set up to help raise the money to cover the cost of the service and repatriating his body.

Almost £20,000 has been donated.

Click here to visit the fundraiser.