TRIBUTES have flooded in for a “talented sportsman” with a heart of gold.

Clive Makoni has been described as a great man whose “kindness, gentle nature and beaming smile will be sorely missed”.

The former AFC Bournemouth youth team striker played for clubs across the south and died at just 26-years-old earlier this month.

Since then tributes have poured in.

A statement from Bournemouth University men’s football said: “Clive was a true role model who will be missed by so many.

“We are devastated to report that former first-team captain Clive Makoni has passed away.

“Clive was not only one of the best footballers that BU has ever seen, he was a great man with a heart of gold.

“A true BU legend who will be missed terribly.

“Rest in peace.”

Bournemouth Sports FC added; “We are devastatingly shocked and saddened to hear the sad sad news of player Clive Makoni’s sudden passing. Our heartfelt thoughts go to Clive’s family, friends, colleagues, former & current BSFC teammates. The footballing family has lost a true gent.”

A statement from Dorchester Town Football Club who Clive previously played for, read: “We were saddened to learn of the passing of former Magpie Clive Makoni.

“Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with Clive’s family and friends.”

Bournemouth 7s Festival posted on its Twitter page: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Clive Makoni, a hugely valued member of our festival team.

“A talented sportsman, Clive’s kindness, gentle nature and beaming smile will be sorely missed.”

Players paid their respects during a minute silence before a match between Fawley AFC and Tadley Calleva.

Clive, originally from Southampton, was pronounced dead on September 9 at an Airbnb in Winchester Road, Kings Somborne where a cleaner found him hanging.

However, pathologist Dr Adnan Al-Badri says further investigations are required.

In a post mortem report, he stated the preliminary cause of death as unascertained.

An inquest has been opened by senior coroner Christopher Wilkinson,

The full inquest has been adjourned until May 17 2021.