Former Port Vale and Gillingham captain Doug Loft has died at the age of 39 following a 'medical emergency,' his former clubs announced. Loft is survived by his wife, Laura, and their two children, Freya and Amelie.
Port Vale, where Loft played from 2009 to 2014 and served as captain for two years, expressed their sadness on social media. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former captain, Doug Loft, who passed away at the age of 39 following a medical emergency," the club posted on X. "We send our love to Doug's family, friends and former team-mates at this difficult time. RIP Doug." The club also shared a video compilation of his time at Vale, where he made 196 appearances.
Upon leaving Port Vale, Loft returned to his home county of Kent to join Gillingham, where he was immediately appointed captain. Gillingham released a statement expressing their devastation: "The Football Club is absolutely devastated to announce the death of former Gills captain, Doug Loft. Doug died suddenly following a medical emergency over the weekend. He was 39. Our thoughts and condolences are with Doug's wife Laura, their children Freya and Amelie, along with his friends and family at this very difficult time."
Loft had a career spanning 421 appearances and 32 goals. He also played for Brighton, Colchester, and Shrewsbury Town before retiring in 2023 after a spell with Tonbridge Wells. In 2014, he made headlines after sustaining a broken cheekbone and severe facial injuries during a training ground clash with teammate Daniel Jones, which led to Jones's dismissal.
Former Gillingham teammate Leon Legge shared his condolences on X, stating, "Life is so short. A former team-mate passed away and literally only a couple of years between us. 39 is way too young." Jamie O'Hara, who coached and played with Loft at Billericay Town, described him as "one of the good guys in football" and praised his talent and dedication, sending his heart out to Loft's family.