Leitrim footballer Philip McGuinness passed away today after suffering an accidental blow to the head during a GAA game on Saturday.

The Leitrim player was lining out for his home club Mohill against Melvin Gaels in a county league match when he fell and struck his head off an opponent's knee

When it became obvious at the time that the 26-year-old would not recover consciousness, the game was abandoned and an ambulance was called to rush him to Sligo General Hospital from the Annaduff venue.

He was later airlifted to Dublin's Beaumont Hospital where he lost his battle for life this afternoon.

The Mohill man was a regular fixture in the Leitrim forward line and played against Limerick in the NFL Division 4 fixture just eight days ago. He played in last year's Connacht SFC and was also an accomplished hurler, having represented the county in the small ball game as well.

Philip is survived by his mother Phil and brothers Michael and John, both of whom have also worn the Leitrim jersey.

His father Michael, who was selected on the Leitrim Team of the Millennium, passed away a number of years ago.

Leitrim County Board confirmed the news in a statement this afternoon.

"It is with great sadness and regret that Leitrim County Board confirm the tragic and untimely passing of Philip Mc Guinness of Mohill GAA Club and member of the County Leitrim senior team," read the statement from Leitrim County Board.

"His death, as the result of an injury sustained in a Club game at the weekend has left not only his family, his Club and the people of Leitrim in deep shock but also the entire GAA community

"'Philly', as he was known was the ultimate team player, talented, dedicated and above all loyal. His death has had a profound effect in Leitrim GAA circles.

"However, his loss to Club and County is second to the void now left in the Mc Guinness household of his mother Phil, brothers John and Michael and to the extended McGuinness family throughout Ireland. To all of them we offer our sincerest condolences.

"Solas na bhFaitheas ar a ainm dílis."

GAA President Christy Cooney paid tribute to the Leitrim player and offered his sympathies on behalf of all GAA members to his family and friends.

"Philip's passing is as untimely as it is tragic and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time," said Cooney.

"I know GAA members and people across the country were waiting for news on hearing of his situation and this news will be sorely felt in GAA circles, most notably in Leitrim. Philip made a handsome contribution to both his County and of course his Club Mohill in a life full of promise that was cut tragically short.

"I extend my deepest sympathies to his immediate family and to the wide circle of friends and players he came into contact with while playing both football and hurling." Tweet

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